STANWOOD — The city is saying goodbye to one police chief and welcoming another.
Former chief Ty Trenary was promoted to captain at the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.
Stanwood contracts with the sheriff’s office for police services, and the contract says a lieutenant must serve as police chief, sheriff’s bureau chief Kevin Prentiss said.
Lt. Richard Hawkins is the city’s new top cop.
Hawkins started the post this week. He said he’s excited to work with community leaders and get to know people in Stanwood.
Hawkins also has served as police chief in Darrington and interim police chief in Sultan and Granite Falls.
He’s always liked the idea of working in Stanwood.
“I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “This has been a goal for some time.”
Trenary now will work out of the sheriff’s north precinct in Smokey Point, Prentiss said.
While in Stanwood, Trenary helped city leaders connect to youth and address drug-related issues in the community, Stanwood Mayor Dianne White said.
Trenary was known for tackling projects with speed and compassion, she said.
“Ty’s been great for the city,” she said.
A public reception is planned on Thursday to thank Trenary and introduce Hawkins.
The mayor was impressed with Hawkins’ dedication to mentoring young people and reaching out to them before they get into trouble, White said.
“He comes with small-town police chief experience,” she said. “There’s no learning curve for him. He’s already there.”
The reception is set for 6 p.m. Thursday at the Stanwood-Camano School District administration building at 26920 Pioneer Highway. The reception also will honor Stanwood police officer Rick Nauman, who is retiring after more than 30 years.
Following the reception will be the City Council meeting, which is expected to include a swearing-in ceremony for Hawkins.
Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com.
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