ARLINGTON — The city finally has a new top cop.
After a long and rigorous hiring process, Arlington has chosen Robert Sullenberger to serve as its new police chief.
Sullenberger, who will be earning nearly $126,000 a year, is scheduled to begin March 2.
“I’m looking forward to getting started,” he said.
Sullenberger will join a department of 30 officers with a budget topping $2 million, Banfield said. Sullenberger currently serves as the deputy police chief for Boulder, Colo.
“As revenue continues to shrink, it affects all departments,” Banfield said. “Bob is going to really help us continue to do things differently, in ways that will help us save money.”
Police Lt. Terry Quintrall has served as the acting police chief since former chief John Gray resigned in late June.
The city received applications from 38 qualified people and then went through the process to narrow the field to six finalists, city spokeswoman Kristin Banfield said.
Candidates underwent a lengthy background check mandated by state law, Banfield said. Each had multiple interviews with City Council members, the mayor, city employees and community members.
“It was a very difficult choice for the mayor and for the council,” Banfield said. “But (Sullenberger) is really the best fit for the community and the challenges we are looking to address.”
One of Sullenberger’s first big tasks will be to organize a volunteer program with reserve officers, retired folks and cadets working with police to help keep the city safe, Banfield said.
Sullenberger is a 28-year veteran of law enforcement, having served his entire career with the Boulder Police Department. His current assignment includes overseeing patrols, investigations, community services and SWAT teams.
Sullenberger earned a degree in police science from New Mexico State University.
Reporter Katya Yefimova: 425-339-3452 or kyefimova@heraldnet.com.
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