Police department seeks input in chief search
Columbia officials are asking residents for their input in the search for the next police chief. Residents are able to give their opinions about the police chief candidates until Jan. 21. City Manager Bill Watkins said the city is asking for feedback following the roundtable discussion on Jan. 12.
“If you observed these individuals during our televised news conference or met them at the informal roundtable session earlier this week, we welcome your reactions," Watkins said in a news release from the city.
Watkins also asked for the input of anyone who missed the discussion but had opinions on the police chief search.
Residents are able to leave comments on the city's Web site, by clicking on the "police chief finalist public comment tab. Interested residents can also e-mail Watkins or send him a note, stated the news release.
Watkins said he will be conducting background checks to narrow the remaining four candidates down to two.