The City of Sacramento is recruiting its next police chief to lead one of California’s largest law enforcement agencies, oversee department operations and address public safety priorities throughout the community.
Sacramento City Manager Maraskeshia Smith is inviting residents to help shape the selection of the City’s next police chief by participating in a community survey.
The survey asks residents about their public safety priorities, expectations for the Police Department and the leadership qualities they believe are most important in the City’s next chief.
“Selecting our next police chief is one of the most important decisions I will make as City Manager, and I want our community to have a voice in that process,” Smith said. “We want to hear directly from residents and businesses about their public safety priorities, their expectations for the Police Department and the leadership qualities they believe are essential for Sacramento’s next chief.”
Take the community survey
Residents are encouraged to complete the online survey by Thursday, November 5.
Take the community survey in English.
The City has also made the survey available in multiple languages to encourage participation from Sacramento’s diverse communities.
About the police chief recruitment
The City has retained Ralph Andersen & Associates to conduct a national recruitment for the position. The search seeks an experienced, collaborative leader who can advance public safety, support department employees and strengthen community trust.
The recruitment follows the retirement of former Police Chief Kathy Lester. Zachary Bales is currently serving as interim police chief while the City conducts its search for a permanent replacement.
Applications for the position are being accepted through Nov. 9, 2026. The recruitment process is expected to include candidate interviews in early December, with a final selection anticipated between late December and early January. These dates are tentative and subject to change.
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