Search for Goldsboro police chief ongoing
By Gary Popp
Published in News on December 18, 2011 1:50 AM
More than 20 people have thrown their hats into the ring in hopes of being named Goldsboro's next police chief, and City Manager Scott Stevens is expecting many more to apply.
The city began accepting applications just over three weeks ago. Those interested in leading the 115-person police force have until Jan. 17 to apply.
Stevens said most applicants are likely to wait until closer to the cutoff date to hand in their resumes and references.
Since former Chief Tim Bell retired March 1, Goldsboro police Major Jeff Stewart has served as interim chief.
Stevens said little has been done in the hiring process other than posting the job advertisment, which has appeared in local media and multiple statewide municipal print and online publications.
Stevens said the city is still in the initial phase of accepting applications, and that he does not plan on reviewing any candidates' credentials until after the first of the year.
The city will move quickly after the application cutoff date, Stevens said.
He said he will assemble of a group of city employees, including department heads, the assistant city manager and members of the human resources staff, to assist in the screening of applicants and the creation of a short list of prospects.
Following interviews, technical assessments and backgroud checks of the abridged list of candidates, Stevens said he would like to appoint the the next police chief in the third week of February.
Stevens previously declined the option to hire an outside agency to facilitate the search for a new chief. Instead, he has delegated city employees to post the advertisements and to accept the applications, a move which could result in about $20,000 of savings for the city.
"We look at every dollar we spend," Stevens said. "If I thought there was a need to bring in a consulting firm, I would. Right now I am comfortable with where we are."
Stevens said the ideal candidate he is looking for has strong technical knowledge and a team-oriented approach.
"I want to make sure we find someone who fits with the community and wants to be part of the community," Stevens said.
Stevens added that he would like the next chief to be willing to serve a minimum of five years before retiring or pursuing other options.