Issaquah’s top cop is stepping down. On Tuesday, Police Chief Paula Schwan announced she will retire effective June 1, and City Hall is already moving to find her replacement, asking residents to help shape what comes next.
City Opens Nationwide Search and Sets Timeline
The City of Issaquah has confirmed Schwan’s retirement and hired a recruitment firm to conduct a nationwide search for the next chief, with a target of selecting a new leader by the end of summer, according to the City of Issaquah. The process includes an online survey that runs March 11 through April 3 and a community meeting on Monday, March 23, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at City Council Chambers, City Hall South.
How Residents Can Weigh In
The Issaquah Police Department shared the news on Facebook, urging residents to “help shape the priorities and leadership qualities” the city should look for in its next chief. The post links directly to the survey and the upcoming public meeting.
Both the department and the city say staff and community stakeholders will be surveyed during the search, and that finalists for the job will come to Issaquah to meet with department personnel and local residents before any decision is made.
Schwan’s Tenure and Department Snapshot
On the department’s website, Schwan’s message highlights partnerships with the mayor and city council and stresses a focus on community trust. The Issaquah Police Department’s About page notes that the agency includes more than 38 sworn officers and 15 correctional staff members serving roughly 40,000 residents, a snapshot of the department Schwan currently leads.
City leaders say the recruitment process will include both confidential and public stages, with the mayor making the final hiring decision after the finalists visit Issaquah. Residents who want a say can complete the online survey before April 3 or attend the March 23 meeting. The city plans to post updates as the search moves forward.
