Austin's search for a new police chief is narrowing down as finalist Jeffrey Norman, current chief of the Milwaukee Police Department, and assistant chief Lisa Davis from the Cincinnati Police Department, engage with the community and outline their visions for the city's law enforcement. According to KVUE, both candidates have stressed the importance of building trust and community engagement in their first public outing on Tuesday.
Meeting with the community at the Palmer Events Center, the candidates presented their approaches to tackling some of the Austin Police Department's current challenges, including a staffing shortage and strained public relations. City Manager T.C. Broadnax, who is tasked with making the final decision, commented that it would not be an easy one to make, with many expecting his pick by the end of the week, as reported by KVUE. The chosen candidate would take over from Interim Chief Robin Henderson, following her decision to retire rather than seek the permanent position.
At his press conference, Norman underscored his belief in collaboration and meaningful partnerships as strategic crime-fighting tools. Meanwhile, Davis highlighted proactive measures like placing police cars in high-crime locations to deter criminal activity. "The first thing I have to do is start building trust," Davis told KVUE, emphasizing her commitment to active listening and on-the-ground engagement.
In response to questions about the police academy and the Austin Police Oversight Act, having come from an oversight environment in Milwaukee, Norman said to the Austin American Statesman, "There's always a solution." About the same topics, he pledged to show transparency and to gain a thorough understanding of the challenges to find solutions.
The finalists also addressed the current vacancies plaguing APD and shared their thoughts on recruitment and retention. Norman stated the importance of a unified message to boost morale and attract new officers. Public response to both candidates was mixed, with community members expressing varying levels of enthusiasm and concern over the ability of each to address specific community issues, according to reactions gathered by KVUE at the meet-and-greet. The City Council is expected to confirm Broadnax's selection on July 30, after a comprehensive review of community input from Tuesday's event.
