Lisa Davis has been chosen as the next chief of police for Austin, according to City Manager T.C. Broadnax. The announcement was made on August 2, and a confirmation vote by the City Council is scheduled for August 6. This decision comes after a thorough candidate interview process, during which Davis, an assistant chief at the Cincinnati Police Department, impressed city officials with her clear and assured responses.
If confirmed, Davis will be only the second woman to hold the position of chief of police in Austin, following Robin Henderson, who has been serving as interim chief. Henderson, though respected for her leadership, did not apply for the permanent position and is reportedly ready to retire after a long career at APD.
Despite initial expectations favoring Jeffrey Norman, the current chief of Milwaukee’s police department, Davis emerged as the preferred candidate due to her performance during the interview process. While Norman’s responses were described as muddled and unclear, Davis’s answers were deemed more confident and articulate. This unexpected turn of events has raised some questions about how Davis will handle the leadership of a larger force like APD, which employs significantly more officers than Cincinnati’s police department.
In a statement following her appointment, Davis emphasized the importance of collaboration and trust in ensuring public safety. She expressed her eagerness to start building relationships with APD officers, city officials, and community members in order to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone in Austin.
The decision to appoint Davis as the new chief of police signifies a significant step forward for the Austin Police Department, as city officials aim to establish a stronger and more cooperative relationship with the community. With Davis at the helm, there is hope for positive change and progress in addressing the city’s public safety concerns.
As the City Council prepares for the confirmation vote, the residents of Austin are encouraged to voice their opinions on this important decision. The selection of the city’s next police chief will have a lasting impact on the community, and it is crucial for all stakeholders to be engaged in the process.
In conclusion, the appointment of Lisa Davis as Austin’s next chief of police marks a new chapter in the city’s law enforcement leadership. With her commitment to collaboration and trust, Davis is poised to lead APD towards a more inclusive and effective approach to public safety. As Austin continues to evolve and grow, having a dedicated and capable chief of police is essential for building a safer and more united community.