Mayor Harrell Names Search Committee and Launches Community Survey to Identify Seattle’s Next Chief of Police

The council passed a resolution put forward by Councilmember Sara Nelson signaling support for funding a police staffing incentive program by lifting a budget proviso restricting the Seattle Police Department (SPD) from using salary savings.

The council also passed an ordinance by Councilmember Lisa Herbold authorizing the city to offer relocation assistance for recruits in several hard-to-fill positions with the city, including police officers. The ordinance also authorizes $650,000 toward relocation benefits for police hires and an additional recruiter. Another $350,000 will be allocated to recruitment advertising and assisting with the search for the city’s next police chief.

It comes at a time when there is a continued push related to public safety and new ideas for how to supplement a staffing shortage…