A representative from the Susanville Police Officers Association addressed the City Council during public comment on Sept. 2. The representative requested an update on the search for a new public safety chief.
Chief Bollinger retired officially on Oct. 10, 2025. The city initially launched a search that did not produce results. Afterward, the city hired an outside recruiter and held candidate interviews in February.
The police association said it has not been included in the process. Historically, the association participated in interviews and shared its views on leadership qualities important for the role.
The representative acknowledged the council makes the hiring decision. Still, the public safety chief oversees both police and fire departments, making the role critical for the community.
The department has operated under an interim chief for nearly 11 months. The representative voiced concern about the ongoing uncertainty over permanent leadership.
He stressed the association does not push for a specific candidate or want to interfere with the council’s appointment. The request is for transparency and communication about the search status, timeline, and when the city expects to appoint a permanent chief.
You might ask yourself how this lack of communication affects morale within the department. Would clearer updates help the officers and community feel more confident in the leadership transition?
