Marysville’s new police chief must tackle booming growth

Published 9:00 pm Monday, February 26, 2007

MARYSVILLE – In his 12-year career with the Vancouver Police Department, Rick Smith witnessed the growing pains of the department as the city doubled in population overnight.

As police chief here, Smith is tasked with shaping a police department also faced with booming growth.

Smith, 44, starts work Monday.

“I’m very excited to be here. It’s a first-rate law enforcement department and a first-rate city,” Smith said. “I’m very excited for my family.”

Marysville officials have been searching for a new police chief since Bob Carden left in May to take a job in Visalia, Calif.

Smith was selected in a second search.

Last fall the city offered the job to King County sheriff’s chief Denise Turner, who eventually turned it down after she and the city failed to agree on a contract.

Marysville Mayor Dennis Kendall said everything worked out for the best and he is pleased with the city’s choice.

“This is a first-class police department and with Rick as chief it will continue to provide quality services,” Kendall said.

Smith was a deputy with Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for six years before becoming an officer with the Vancouver Police Department in southwest Washington.

He was commander of the investigations division and the tactical operations division, investigating major crimes. He also helped establish a regional domestic violence unit.

Most recently, Smith was commander of the department’s east precinct, where he oversaw 72 employees who served 95,000 people.

In Marysville, Smith will oversee 45 police officers, two community service officers, 11 custody officers and support staff with an operating budget of $9.8 million. His contract is for $128,000.

Smith said he will take some time to analyze the department before making any changes. He also plans to meet with people in Marysville to discuss their expectations for the department.

“I’ll be looking for ways to get input on a regular basis instead of waiting for a problem,” he said.

Smith said he expects to take a look at the department’s structure and staffing to determine if improvements are necessary to meet the city’s growth.

Those are two issues that are priorities for the police union, said James Maples, president of the Marysville Police Officers Association.

Union members want a new command structure and the city needs at least 10 more police officers, Maples said.

Maples said the union hopes the chief also will address the need for a new station and will advocate for the department at City Hall.

“We’re ready for a fresh start,” Maples said.

Reporter Diana Hefley: 425-339-3463 or hefley@heraldnet.com.