The SFPD has announced appointments to a host of new and expanded roles on the department's "command staff," the leadership group that includes the department's chief, deputy chiefs, commanders, and captains.
Among the six appointments are that of erstwhile Central Station Captain David Lazar and Mission Station Captain Daniel Perea.
Lazar's new role is Commander of Community Engagement. Today is his last day at Central Station.
I am thankful to have worked with incredible officers, staff and the community. Last day at Central Station. Captain Lazar #sfpd pic.twitter.com/Zai7lhOJmo
— SFPD Central Station (@SFPDCentral) February 24, 2017
In a letter to the community, Lazar said that the role, which is brand new to the department, is designed "to put into practice the numerous recommendations offered by the Department of Justice on Community Policing and Community Engagement."
Mission Station announced Perea's promotion on Twitter. His new title and duties have not been released.
Congratulation's to Mission Station's Commander Dan Perea on his well deserved Promotion!! #missionstation pic.twitter.com/viIYn7Ez0X
— SFPD Mission Station (@SFPDMission) February 24, 2017
The moves leave Central and Mission stations without appointed captains for the moment.
Lt. Randy Caturay will serve as acting captain at Mission Station while a replacement is found. An interim captain has not been assigned at Central Station yet.
As reported earlier this week in the Examiner, the expansion of command roles adds further weight to a department already remarkable for the size of its salary costs, which the Examiner reports ran to $500 million last fiscal year—more than 86 percent of the SFPD's total budget.
By the department's own count, newly announced appointments bring the command staff's tally to 43 people, which as the Examiner reports will add an annual $11 million to the department's operating costs for salaries and benefits.
Central Station's standing monthly community meeting will continue as scheduled: 6-7pm Monday, March 6th, at Grace Cathedral.
