The first of two public forums is taking place tonight in Santa Maria to get input from the community on the search for a Police Chief. Dan Macagni retired in August and a nationwide search for a new Chief started in September. Interim Police Chief Ralph Martin is overseeing duties for now. City Manager Rick Haydon tells the Information Station that November 14th at 5:00 pm is the deadline for applications for the job. The position will pay between $140,000-$171,000 annually.
Tonight's forum starts at 6:30 pm at City Council Chambers, located at 110 East Cook Street and it will be in English. The second forum will be in Spanish on Tuesday, October 23rd, also at 6:30 pm at the Veterans Memorial Community Center at 313 West Tunnell Street.
The City has also made an online questionaire about the search for a new Police Chief available for the public at www.cityofsantamaria.com.