Edmonds’ acting chief appointed to top job

EDMONDS — Acting Edmonds Police Chief Al Compaan has been appointed by the mayor to fill the city’s top police position permanently.

Compaan, an Edmonds officer since 1978, was promoted to the position because of the leadership he’s shown as acting police chief, Edmonds Mayor Gary Haakenson said.

Compaan, who was the city’s assistant police chief, was named acting chief in April after former Police Chief David Stern died suddenly from a medical condition.

“Since being named acting chief after the untimely passing of Chief Stern, Al has shown the leadership qualities that the department and the public expect,” Haakenson said. “As a 29-year veteran of the department, he has gained the respect and support of the department, city staff and citizens.”

The public is invited to meet Compaan during a reception in the Edmonds City Council chambers scheduled for 6 tonight. The council chambers are in the Public Safety Complex at 250 Fifth Ave. N.

The City Council is scheduled to vote at its Oct. 2 meeting whether to confirm the appointment of Compaan to the position. A reception is being planned for after the confirmation.

“Al is the right candidate at the right time for the Edmonds Police Department,” Haakenson said.

During his time in Edmonds, Compaan has worked as a patrol officer, detective, corporal and sergeant. He was appointed to assistant police chief in 1996.

He has a bachelor’s degree from University of Washington and is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. He also holds an executive management certification from Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission.

Reporter Scott Pesznecker: 425-339-3436 or spesznecker@heraldnet.com.