Petaluma Surveys Residents In Search For Next Police Chief

PETALUMA, CA — The city of Petaluma is gathering community feedback as part of the selection process for its next chief of police.

Chief Ken Savano, a 30-year veteran of law enforcement who served as the city's top cop since 2017, leaves big shoes to fill. Savano's character and his dedication and commitment to public safety earned him recognition as the Petaluma Police Department's Officer of the Year in 1998. After being promoted to sergeant in 2002, one of Savano’s most significant achievements was supervising the countywide DUI task force. Under his leadership, the law enforcement agencies of Sonoma County worked together and reduced fatal and injury alcohol-related collisions in the county by more than 70 percent. Savano served on a variety of police boards, including as a president for the Sonoma County Law Enforcement Chiefs’ Association.

"Chief Savano’s legacy of impressive police work, dedication to the community, and commitment to building relationships both inside and outside of the department will be missed," the Petaluma Police Department said in a post upon his retirement in November.

Interim police Chief Brian Miller, a 19-year veteran of the Petaluma Police Department, has been serving in the role since Nov. 20. In addition to earning the ranks of deputy chief, lieutenant and sergeant, Miller has also served as a patrol officer, gang enforcement officer, field training officer, crisis negotiator and detective.

Search Begins With Residents

The search for the next police chief begins with its residents, the city said.

"We want to know from you what qualities and characteristics are most important for our next police chief," city officials said. "We also want to know what you see as the most important challenges and issues that will be facing our new police chief."

The approach involves multiple stages to ensure a leader is chosen who not only meets the highest professional standards but also resonates with the values and needs of the Petaluma community, city officials said.

The city plans to open the recruitment in January after working through the end of this year to gather community feedback.

Two community meetings were held and the city posted a survey online to gather additional feedback. Click here to complete the brief survey.