FARGO (KFGO) – After several members of the Fargo Police Department and others spoke in favor of making interim police chief Travis Stefonowicz the permanent chief, the City Commission voted to expedite the hiring process.
Commissioner Michelle Turnberg proposed a three-day posting for the position, but her motion did not receive a second. Human Resources Director Jill Minette says openings for department heads typically run anywhere from three to six weeks.
City Administrator Michael Redlinger laid out three possible options, to begin the hiring process for the new chief. Option 1A would have posted the position April 27 with final interview mid-July. That option would have the new chief starting at a date to be determined.
Option 1B would have the position posted May 11 with final interviews mid-August. The new chief would start in late August or mid-October depending on whether the selection is internal or external.
Commissioner Denise Kolpack made a motion on Option 2, which was seconded by Mayor Tim Mahoney. That option was to post the position Tuesday with final interviews May 5-6. The new chief would start either May 11 if the candidate is internal, or July 6 if external.
Commissioner Dave Piepkorn favored a slower approach, saying the position and process is important and shouldn’t be rushed.
The commission voted 3-2 to move ahead with Option 2. Piepkorn and Commissioner John Strand voted against the motion.
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