From: Faith Vavra <fvavra@cityofithaca.

org>
Sent: Monday, December 5, 2022 7:29 PM
To: Media
Subject: Statement from Mayor Elect Lewis and Acting Chief Joly
Attachments: Mayor-Chief Statement.pdf

Please see the attached press release from Mayor Elect Lewis and Acting Chief Joly. 

Faith  

Faith Vavra
(She/her/hers)
Chief of Staff
City of Ithaca
Phone: 607-274-6512
Email: fvavra@cityofithaca.org
4th Floor City Hall
108 Green Street, Ithaca, NY 14850-5690
Ithaca, NY ‐ Official Website | 
Official Website 
(cityofithaca.org)

1
 CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
MAYOR’S OFFICE
LAURA LEWIS, MAYOR ELECT

Telephone: 607-274-6501
Email: mayor @ci tyofi tha ca.org
Fax: 607-274-6526

December 5, 2022 - For Immediate Release

Joint Statement of Mayor-Elect Lewis and Acting Chief Joly

Statement of Mayor-Elect Lewis:

“Last week, I nominated Acting Chief Joly for the position of Police Chief.
He has a long history of dedicated service to the department, including as
Deputy Chief and, during the past challenging nineteen months, as Acting
Chief. I believe his experience could have served the department and the City
well going forward.

After careful consideration, however, I believe it is necessary to change

course now and reopen the search. I respect the fact that a number of my
colleagues disagreed with my recommendation and so I will be removing this
appointment from the December 7 Common Council agenda. This has been
an extremely difficult decision. I will soon announce a plan for a reopened
search for the next Chief of the Ithaca Police Department."

Statement of Acting Chief Joly:

“I am disappointed by the Common Council’s conclusion on my proposed

appointment. I’m confident I would have continued to serve the City and the
Department well as Chief, but I also respect that this is a decision that the
Common Council needs to support. I wish the IPD all the best and, like all of
us, wish the Mayor success in recruiting another excellent candidate to this
crucial and difficult role.”

"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."

From: Faith Vavra <fvavra@cityofithaca.org>
Sent: Monday, December 5, 2022 7:28 PM
To: IPD
Cc: Laura Lewis; Schelley Michell-Nunn
Subject: Statement from Mayor Elect Lewis
Attachments: Mayor-Chief Statement.pdf

Dear IPD,

Per the mayor elects request, Please see the attached press release from her and Acting Chief Joly.

Faith

Faith Vavra
(She/her/hers)
Chief of Staff
City of Ithaca
Phone: 607-274-6512
Email: fvavra@cityofithaca.org
4th Floor City Hall
108 Green Street, Ithaca, NY 14850-5690
Ithaca, NY - Official Website |
Official Website
(cityofithaca.org)

1
 CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
LAURA LEWIS, MAYOR ELECT

Telephone: 607-274-6501
Email: m ay or @c i t yof i t ha c a.org
Fax: 607-274-6526

December 5, 2022 - For Immediate Release

Joint Statement of Mayor-Elect Lewis and Acting Chief Joly

Statement of Mayor-Elect Lewis:

week, I nominated Acting Chief Joly for the position of Police Chief.
He has a long history of dedicated service to the department, including as
Deputy Chief and, during the past challenging nineteen months, as Acting
Chief. I believe his experience could have served the department and the City
well going forward.

After careful consideration, however, I believe it is necessary to change

course now and reopen the search. I respect the fact that a number of my
colleagues disagreed with my recommendation and so I will be removing this
appointment from the December 7 Common Council agenda. This has been
an extremely difficult decision. I will soon announce a plan for a reopened
search for the next Chief of the Ithaca Police Department."

Statement of Acting Chief Joly:

appointment.
Department well as Chief, but I also respect that this is a decision that the
Common Council needs to support. I wish the IPD all the best and, like all of
us, wish the Mayor success in recruiting another excellent candidate to this

"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."

From: Laura Lewis on behalf of Laura Lewis <LLewis@cityofithaca.org>
Sent: Monday, December 5, 2022 11:46 AM
To: Common Council
Cc: Schelley Michell-Nunn; Faith Vavra; John Joly; Aaron Lavine
Subject: IPD Chief search UPDATE
Attachments: Mayor-Chief Statement.pdf

Colleagues,
Please see the attached statement, mine, and that of Acting Chief Joly. This will be released to the media shortly, but I
wanted you to have this information first. I will work closely with Schelley on next steps in a reopened search.
Laura

Laura Lewis
Acting Mayor/Mayor Elect

1
 CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850-5690
LAURA LEWIS, MAYOR ELECT

Telephone: 607-274-6501
Email: m ay or @c i t yof i t ha c a.org
Fax: 607-274-6526

December 5, 2022 - For Immediate Release

Joint Statement of Mayor-Elect Lewis and Acting Chief Joly

Statement of Mayor-Elect Lewis:

week, I nominated Acting Chief Joly for the position of Police Chief.
He has a long history of dedicated service to the department, including as
Deputy Chief and, during the past challenging nineteen months, as Acting
Chief. I believe his experience could have served the department and the City
well going forward.

After careful consideration, however, I believe it is necessary to change

course now and reopen the search. I respect the fact that a number of my
colleagues disagreed with my recommendation and so I will be removing this
appointment from the December 7 Common Council agenda. This has been
an extremely difficult decision. I will soon announce a plan for a reopened
search for the next Chief of the Ithaca Police Department."

Statement of Acting Chief Joly:

appointment.
Department well as Chief, but I also respect that this is a decision that the
Common Council needs to support. I wish the IPD all the best and, like all of
us, wish the Mayor success in recruiting another excellent candidate to this

"An Equal Opportunity Employer with a commitment to workforce diversification."

From: Cynthia Brock on behalf of Cynthia Brock <CBrock@cityofithaca.org>
Sent: Monday, December 5, 2022 12:21 PM
To: Laura Lewis; Common Council
Cc: Schelley Michell-Nunn; Faith Vavra; John Joly; Aaron Lavine
Subject: Re: IPD Chief search UPDATE

Thank you, Laura.

Get Outlook for iOS

From: Laura Lewis <LLewis@cityofithaca.org>

Sent: Monday, December 5, 2022 8:46:01 AM
To: Common Council <council@cityofithaca.org>
Cc: Schelley Michell-Nunn <SMichell-Nunn@cityofithaca.org>; Faith Vavra <fvavra@cityofithaca.org>; John Joly
<JJoly@cityofithaca.org>; Aaron Lavine <ALavine@cityofithaca.org>
Subject: IPD Chief search UPDATE

Colleagues,
Please see the attached statement, mine, and that of Acting Chief Joly. This will be released to the media shortly, but I
wanted you to have this information first. I will work closely with Schelley on next steps in a reopened search.
Laura

Laura Lewis
Acting Mayor/Mayor Elect

1
From: Melody Faraday on behalf of Melody Faraday <MFaraday@cityofithaca.org>
Sent: Tuesday, December 6, 2022 3:34 PM
To: Common Council
Cc: Aaron Lavine; Victor Kessler; Schelley Michell-Nunn
Subject: Revised Agenda
Attachments: 12-7-22 Common Council Agenda REVISED.pdf

Hello all,

Please see the attached REVISED agenda for the upcoming 12-7-22 Common Council Meeting.

Thank you,

Melody Faraday
Public Information Specialist
City of Ithaca

1
 Date: 12-07-2022
COMMON COUNCIL Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Common
AGENDA ITEMS Council Chambers
City Hall, 108 E.
REVISED Green Street, Ithaca

Item Voting Presenter(s) Time

Item Allotted

CALL TO ORDER No Mayor Elect Lewis 10 Mins

1.1 Additions to or Deletions from the Agenda
1.2 Reports of Municipal Officials

2.1 Petitions and Hearings of Persons before Council No *Note: See instructions 40 Mins
2.2 Privilege of the Floor – Mayor and Council No on how to participate
on page 3 of the
agenda.

CONSENT AGENDA
3.1 DPW – 2023 SMART Grant Resolution Yes Common Council 5 Mins
3.2 DPW – 2023 Parking Rates - Resolution
3.3 DPW – Inter City Bus Analysis - Resolution
3.4 DPW - Agreement with the City of Ithaca
School District and a Stormwater Easement With
Founders Way – Declaration of Lead Agency
3.5 DPW - Authorize a Reciprocal Easement Agreement
with Ithaca City School District – Negative
Declaration of Environmental Significance
3.6 DPW - Authorize a Reciprocal Easement Agreement
with Ithaca City School District to Facilitate
Construction of a Gymnasium for the Greater Ithaca
Activities Center
3.7 Ordinance Amending Ithaca City Code Chapters
146, “Building Code Enforcement,” and 181, “Fire
Prevention,” to Conform with Revised 19 NYCRR
Part 1203
3.8 An Ordinance Amending the Ithaca City Code
Section 346-6, Speed Limits – Declaration
Of Lead Agency
3.9 An Ordinance Amending the Ithaca City Code
Section 346-6, Speed Limits – Negative Declaration
Of Lead Agency
3.10 An Ordinance Amending the Ithaca City Code
Item Voting Presenter(s) Time
Item Allotted

Section 346-6, “Speed Limits”

3.11 DPW – Provide Funds for the Replacement of
Speed Limit Signs
3.12 Finance – Authorization to Cover Red Accounts
- Resolution
3.13 Finance – Approval of 2022-2023 Civil Service
Agreement with the Ithaca city School district –
Resolution
3.14 Finance – Approval of NYCLASS Municipal
Cooperation – Resolution

PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

COMMITTEE
4.1 City of Ithaca CCA Local Law – from October 2022 Yes Sustainability Planner 15 Mins
PEDC Meeting Rebecca Evans
4.2 Public Safety Facility – Allocation of Funding for
Property Acquisition and Associated Costs Yes Director of Planning and 10 Mins
Development/ Lisa
Nicholas and City
Attorney Ari Lavine

EXECUTIVE SESSION
5.1 Motion to Enter into Executive Session to Discuss No Mayor Elect Lewis 30 Min
Personnel Matters

CITY ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE

6.1 DPW- Request an Increased Authorization for The Yes Director of Engineering 10 Mins
Black Diamond Trail Bridge Over the Flood Control Tim Logue
Channel Project CP#851-Resolution
6.2 IPD – Approval to Receive Grant Funds from U.S. Acting Police Chief John
Department of Homeland Security – Resolution Yes Joly 10 Mins
6.3 Funding for The Mayor to Retain Outside Council to
Conduct Labor Relations Negotiations Contracts – Yes Mayor Elect Lewis 10 Mins
Resolution
6.4 Finance – Approval of 2020 City Single Audit – Yes Deputy Controller 5 Mins
Resolution Scott Andrew
6.5 City Controller’s Report No Deputy Controller 10 Mins
Scott Andrew

MEMBER FILED RESOLUTIONS

7.1 Resolution Approving 2022 Workplan for Yes Mayor Elect Lewis 5 Mins
Community Justice Center

7.2 Resolution Approving 2023 Workplan for Yes Mayor Elect Lewis 10 Mins
Community Justice Center
Item Voting Presenter(s) Time
Item Allotted

MAYOR’S APPOINTMENTS Yes Mayor Elect Lewis 10 Mins

8.1 Appointment to the Ithaca Landmarks Preservation
Commission
8.2 Appointment to the Ithaca Housing Authority
8.3 Appointment to the Cable Access Oversight
Committee

REPORTS FROM COUNCIL & STAFF No Common Council and 10 Mins

9.1 Reports of Special Committees Staff
9.2 Reports of Common Council Liaisons
9.3 Report of City Clerk
9.4 Report of City Attorney
NEW BUSINESS
10.1 None

MEETING WRAP-UP
11.1 Adjournment No Mayor Elect Lewis 5 Mins

Hybrid Meetings
Common Council has resumed meeting in person; however, due to limited seating capacity in
Common Council Chambers, city staff and members of the public are encouraged to participate
remotely if they would like to.

How to Participate in Public Comment Virtually

Email Common Council Through the Agenda Link
Written comments can be submitted to Common Council using this form: Common Council
Public Comment Form
 INTRA-AGENCY COMMUNICATION REDACTED

---------- Forwarded message ---------

From: Linda Hoffmann <linda.hoffmann@hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, Dec 5, 2022 at 6:03 PM
Subject: Fw: DEADLINE TUESDAY: Sign a letter to Council on Police Chief Search
To: Laura Lewis

Here is the eblast. Linda

From: Nicholas <ndaniluk@pfaw.org>

Sent: Monday, December 5, 2022 4:44 PM
To: linda.hoffmann@hotmail.com <linda.hoffmann@hotmail.com>
Subject: DEADLINE TUESDAY: Sign a letter to Council on Police Chief Search

To help protect y ou r priv acy , Microsoft O ffice prev ented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

Dear Linda,
As you may have heard, Mayor Lewis recently announced her appointment of Acting
Chief of Police John Joly to be permanent Chief of the Ithaca Police Department (IPD).
After listening to the three candidates for police chief present during public forums,
we believe that the search must be reopened, and that the Mayor and Council should
take their time in this search for a qualified candidate who, at the very least:

 Properly represents the diverse population of Ithaca, and who specifically

understands the needs of traditionally minoritized communities within our city;
 Will commit to implementing the Reimagining Public Safety plan that passed
out of our Common Council unanimously and which has received years’
worth of input from our community;
 Has a background in and stated commitment to nonviolent community policing
and deescalation training;
 Is a resident of Ithaca and has been embedded in our community long enough
to truly understand the unique needs of the diverse communities within our
city; and
 Can commit to total independence from undue political influence of the Police
Benevolent Association.

1
 If you agree, please sign this letter by end of day
Tuesday
There will also be an opportunity to speak on the issue as well in front of
Council on Wednesday; the link to sign up will appear here.
Full Letter Text:

December 7, 2022

Dear Mayor Lewis and Members of Common Council,

As a coalition of community members, leaders, business owners, parents, grandparents, students, and others, we write
to thank you for the hard work you’ve put into searching for an appropriate candidate for permanent Chief of Police of
the Ithaca Police Department (IPD). We also write this letter to urge you to continue the search.

We understand that Council has reached an impasse when it comes to the selection of the next Chief. This makes sense
given that the search process has been rigorous and the candidate qualifications are high. Because none of the
candidates presented before the public reach the high bar the residents of our city deserve and demand in a police
chief, we believe the search should continue until a suitable candidate is determined. While it is not ideal to have our
police department led by an interim chief, that is the best option at this moment.

In our opinion, at a minimum, a qualified Chief of Police for the City of Ithaca is one who:

 Properly represents the diverse population of Ithaca, and who specifically understands the needs of
traditionally minoritized communities within our city;
 Will commit to implementing the Reimagining Public Safety plan that passed out of our Common Council
unanimously and which has received years’ worth of input from our community;
 Has a background in and stated commitment to nonviolent community policing and de-escalation training;
 Is a resident of Ithaca and has been embedded in our community long enough to truly understand the unique
needs of the diverse communities within our city; and
 Can commit to total independence from undue political influence of the Police Benevolent Association.

Our community has spent years fighting for the common sense and overdue reforms codified in the Reimagining Public
Safety plan. Our government agreed that change is needed, and voted to make these reforms a reality. It is time to
implement these reforms, and create a new department of unarmed first responders to serve alongside our traditional
police officers; institute a civilian oversight position over the public safety department; and implement greater
accountability measures.

In the public forums held with the candidates in October, none of the candidates left us feeling confident that the
promised reforms would be supported and implemented by the next chief. While each of the candidates who
interviewed with the public has unique strengths and qualifications, unfortunately none of them demonstrated the
leadership qualities we believe are uniquely required to lead our city’s police department.

We believe that the requirements listed above are not overly burdensome. We believe it is not too much to ask that
our police chief represents us, understands us, is recognizable to us, and listens to us and our elected officials when we
demand change. We need an agile and progressive leader who is committed to carrying out the reimagining process.
None of the candidates presented to us has expressed a commitment to rising to the challenges our city faces in the
coming years.

Ithacans deserve the progress we fought for, and we deserve a leader who is committed to protecting and serving all of
us. Therefore, we the undersigned urge Mayor Lewis and Common Council to reopen the search for permanent Chief,
keeping the process open until a candidate emerges that meets the above criteria.

Signed,

2
Also make sure to like our facebook and follow our instagram!

To help protect y ou r To help protect y ou r To help protect y ou r

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prev ented au tomatic
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from the Internet.
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 INTRA-AGENCY COMMUNICATION REDACTED

From:
Sent: Tuesday, December 6, 2022 10:03 PM
To: Common Council <council@cityofithaca.org>
Subject: Support Scott Garin for Ithaca Police Chief

Dear Ithaca Common Council,

Support Scott Garin for Ithaca Police Chief.

Ithaca has gone without a permanent police chief for way too long. Scott Garin went through the
recent process and was recommended by the search committee to serve as our next permanent
Ithaca Police Chief.

1
Scott has served our community well during his over twenty-year career with the Ithaca Police
Department. If you ask anyone, you’ll find that Scott brought a level of humility, kindness and
respect for everyone in Ithaca who he interacted with.

2
3
He is invested in our community, he raised his family here, and he’s invested in us. Scott recruited police officers
to come to our City for several years as the head of the recruitment team, never losing sight of what we have
asked our police in Ithaca to be, the very best. Scott also advocated for diversity in the ranks of the IPD, to better
reflect our community. He also protected the wellness of his Officers by serving as a mentor and leader of a
confidential referral service, the peers program, for officers who were struggling with the pressures of their jobs
or their personal lives.

Scott has tremendous support in our community, especially in our black and brown
communities. He is the change we need, he wants to make the Ithaca Police Department better,
something we all can feel good about and be proud of. Scott can make IPD more in line with the
values of our community and reimagining, while also keeping us safe.

Scott Garin has always put Ithaca first, even sometimes at the expense of his family and personal
life. Let’s put him first this time and support Scott Garin for Ithaca Police Chief.

Mayor Lewis & the Common Council, do not reopen the search for police chief when we have the
candidate our community wants and deserves standing right in front of us. Appoint Scott Garin as
police chief, not just for us, but for our kids, and for Ithaca.

Thank You,

Sincerely,

4
5
From: Schelley Michell-Nunn on behalf of Schelley Michell-Nunn <SMichell-
Nunn@cityofithaca.org>
Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2023 1:00 PM
To: Gary Peterson
Subject: Current Applicants

Hi Gary,

We had advertised for the police chief exam before we knew we were going to have a failed search. We are
going to postpone the exam until next year and need to notify the applicants that if they are interested, they
should submit their information to you. We decided to have the applicants first submit their information to
you.

Is there an email or link we could give them to submit their info to you. To be honest, we do not believe that
any of them are interested in our position, they are just testing because it is local and have cross filed
elsewhere. Schelley

Schelley Michell-Nunn
Director of Human Resources
City of Ithaca
108 E. Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-274-6539 (W)
607-274-6574 (F)

“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream
and find out why they’re falling in.”

― Desmond Tutu

1
From: Gary Peterson <Gary@publicsectorsearch.com>
Sent: Monday, December 19, 2022 6:24 PM
To: Schelley Michell-Nunn
Subject: RE: Ithaca Proposal
Attachments: Proposal to Conduct Police Police Executive Search - Ithaca.pdf

Hi Schelley – See attached proposal. Let me know if you have any questions. I am working this week and through the
holidays, but I won’t be available on Dec. 27-28th.

Best regards,

Gary

Gary Peterson, CEO/President

Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc.

6520 Lonetree Blvd. Suite 1040

Rocklin, CA 95765

(916) 789-9990 office

(916) 290-0201 fax

(916) 622-5323 cell

gary@publicsectorsearch.com

publicsectorsearch.com

From: Schelley Michell-Nunn <SMichell-Nunn@cityofithaca.org>

Sent: Thursday, December 15, 2022 1:53 PM
To: Gary Peterson <Gary@publicsectorsearch.com>
Subject: Re: Ithaca Proposal

Should have also asked what we should expect in terms of expenses?

Schelley Michell-Nunn
Director of Human Resources
City of Ithaca
108 E. Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-274-6539 (W)
1
607-274-6574 (F)

“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out
why they’re falling in.”

― Desmond Tutu

From: Schelley Michell-Nunn <SMichell-Nunn@cityofithaca.org>

Sent: Thursday, December 15, 2022 4:51 PM
To: gary@publicsectorsearch.com <gary@publicsectorsearch.com>
Subject: Ithaca Proposal

Hi Gary,

Nice meeting you. Schelley

Schelley Michell-Nunn
Director of Human Resources
City of Ithaca
108 E. Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-274-6539 (W)
607-274-6574 (F)

“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need t o go upstream and find out
why they’re falling in.”

― Desmond Tutu

2
December 17, 2022

Ms. Schelley Michell-Nunn

City of Ithaca - City Hall nd Floor
108 E. Green St.
Ithaca, NY 14850

Dear Ms. Michell-Nunn:

Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc. (PSSC) would be honored to partner with the City of Ithaca to
identify top candidates to compete for the Chief of Police vacancy. In each project, we conduct an inclusive
search that produces a diverse pool of highly qualified candidates. In addition, we collaborate with our
clients to design an innovative search and selection process that challenges even the strongest of
candidates.

Our clients choose PSSC because we are the industry experts, specializing in police chief executive search.
Our recruiters are all former police chiefs and law enforcement executives who understand how to
incorporate community engagement into today's complex executive search process. Based on
several factors, this will be a challenging search. The amount of consultant work required is
reflected in the cost proposal.

Our experience in New York State and specialization in public safety separate us from other firms.
Our work includes police chief searches all resulting in placements in Albany, Syracuse, Rochester,
Beacon, MTA, Long Beach, and the University At Buffalo.

As the President/CEO of our firm, I will be the roject irector and one of our other team members will
be the project consultant. Our firm has conducted more than sixty-five police executive searches
since 2017, including the recent searches below:
2022 - Kansas City, MO – Police Chief 2022 - Atlanta, GA – Police Chief
2022 - Wichita, KS – Police Chief 2022 - Lansing, MI – Chief of Police
2022 - Grand Rapids, M I– Chief of Police 2022 - MTA, NY – Police Chief
2022 - Minneapolis, MN – Chief of Police 2021 - Pensacola, FL – Police Chief
2022 - Seattle, WA – Police Chief 2021 - Raleigh, NC – Police Chief
2022 - Irving, TX – Chief of Police 2021 - San Luis Obispo, CA – Police Chief
2022 - Laramie, WY – Chief of Police 2020 - Long Beach, NY– Police Commissioner
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need additional information regarding our proposed
services or qualifications.

Sincerely,
Gary Peterson
Gary Peterson, MS JD
President/CEO – Chief of Police (ret.)

6520 Lonetree Blvd. Suite 1040 Tel: (916) 789-9990 info@publicsectorsearch.com

Rocklin, CA 95765 Fax: (916) 290-0201 www.publicsectorsearch.com
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter of Interest............................................................................................................................................1

Table of Contents ........................................................................................................................................ 2

Section 1 –Qualifications ............................................................................................................................ 3

Race and Equity Statement.............................................................................................................. 3

Project Staff ................................................................................................................................. 4-5

Section 2 – Scope of Services ..................................................................................................................6-9

Section 3 – Timeline ................................................................................................................................... 10

Section 4 –Cost Proposal........................................................................................................................... 11

Performance Guarantee ................................................................................................................12

References ..................................................................................................................................... 13

Track Record .................................................................................................................................. 14

Back page ...................................................................................................................................... 15

 3

SECTION 1 - QUALIFICATIONS

Company Overview Contact Person

Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc. Mr. Gary Peterson, President/CEO
6520 Lonetree Blvd. Suite 1040 (916) 622-5323 cell
Rocklin, CA 95765 gary@publicsectorsearch.com
(916) 789-9990 (office) Website: www.publicsectorsearch.com

Firm Qualifications. Public Sector Search & Consulting is the only search firm in the US that focuses exclusively
on recruiting police executives. Our recruiters are all former police chiefs and law enforcement executives who have
extensive knowledge and expertise in contemporary policing strategies and recruiting candidates who possess the
experience and track record to implement such strategies in the communities they serve.

Recent national and local events have caused many of our clients to examine the complexities in the important
and ongoing national conversation about race and policing. Several of our clients are also having community
conversations about the role police should play in advancing public safety in their communities. These
conversations underscore the need for thoughtful, inclusive, and collaborative police leadership.

Public Sector Search is a California Corporation that offers executive search, consulting, and interim placement
services to cities, universities, and community colleges. We have been in business since 2015 (Background
Investigations) and evolved into a boutique firm with five recruiters, two support staff, and a graphic designer/web
manager. In 2022, we have assisted more than twenty different entities in their search for a police chief or other
police executive. (see attached)

Race and Equity Statement. We work with our clients to identify and remove traditional barriers that discourage
underrepresented applicants from becoming candidates. We celebrate race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, and our
nation's veterans. As a result, our record of attracting diverse candidates exceeds industry standards. For example,
in more than 60% of PSSC’s police chief searches, the hiring authority has selected a candidate from a traditionally
underrepresented group, while the national average for public sector search firms is under 30%.

Insurance. Public Sector Search is insured through Lloyds of London and Markel FirstComp as follows:

General Liability – Commercial $1,000,000 Each occurrence

$3,000,000 General Aggregate
Automobile Liability $1,000,000 Bodily injury (per person)
(Hired and Non-Owned) $3,000,000 Bodily injury (per accident)
Workers Compensation $1,000,000 Per Accident
Professional Liability $2,000,000 Per occurrence
 PROJECT STAFF

Mr. Gary Peterson, Project Consultant

President/CEO - Chief of Police (ret.)

If selected, the firm's founder, Mr. Gary Peterson, would be the recruiter and manager
for this project, advise the client, and actively recruit candidates. Mr. Peterson has
successfully managed and recruited national candidates in fifty different police chief
searches over the past five years, including nine (9) Major U.S. cities: Minneapolis,
MN, Seattle, WA, Dallas, TX, Kansas City, MO, San Francisco, CA, and Sacramento, CA, Raleigh, NC,
Albuquerque, NM, Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County, TN and San Jose, CA.

Mr. Peterson brings 31 years of public sector employment and executive recruiting experience to each search.
Before entering the executive search profession, Mr. Peterson was an appointed police chief in Martinez,
California (pop. 36,000). Mr. Peterson possesses a deep understanding of mission-driven police organizations
and the trends, opportunities, and challenges facing police executives in the 21st century. He has extensive
experience working with mayors, city administrators, city managers, city councils, commissions, and search
committees, delivering professional executive search services. Before founding PSSC, Mr. Peterson worked for a
large firm recruiting executives for government positions that included all department heads.

Mr. Peterson holds a Juris Doctor from John F. Kennedy University, School of Law, an MS in Criminal Justice
from California State University, Sacramento, and a BA in Sociology from the University of California, Riverside.
Mr. Peterson is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP)
in Boston, MA. Mr. Peterson is a current member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National
Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, the Police Executive Research Forum, and the FBI National
Academy Associates.

Kenton Buckner, Senior Consultant

Chief of Police (ret.)

Mr. Kenton Buckner joined Public Sector Search after a 29-year career in policing that
includes serving as the Chief of Police in Syracuse, NY, and Little Rock, AR, both mid-
sized cities. Mr. Buckner's focus is recruiting and advising prospective candidates. Mr.
Buckner began his law enforcement career in 1993 and served twenty-one years for
the Louisville Metro Police Department, where he rose through the ranks to the
position of assistant chief, holding key operational and administrative positions. Mr. Buckner is known for being a
strong leader and change agent. Mr. Buckner holds both Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees
from Eastern Kentucky University. He is a graduate of the FBI National Executive Institute, Southern Police
Institute, and NOBLE's Chief Executive Officer Mentoring Program. He also completed the Senior Executives in
State and Local Government at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Mr. Buckner is
a Commissioner for the Commission on Accreditation Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). Mr. Buckner is active
in the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and the International Association of Chiefs of
Police.
 5

Mr. Justin Doll, Search Consultant

Chief of Police (ret.)
Mr. Justin Doll (Chief of Police, Ret.) is an influential, dynamic, and results-oriented Senior
Executive with extensive experience in government and public safety that focuses on
success through collaboration with key stakeholders at all levels. Mr. Doll joined PSSC
after serving as Chief of Police in Anchorage, Alaska for several years. Under his
leadership, the 600-person department saw an increase in the recruitment and retention of
talented individuals and a significant reduction in crime in nearly every category.
Throughout his 25-year career, Mr. Doll excelled in various technical and leadership roles.
During his tenure as the APD chief of police, he also served as Chair of the Alaska Police Standards Council, an entity
comprised of law enforcement executives and members of the public, who were responsible for enforcing the high
standards expected of law enforcement officers across the state.
Mr. Doll earned a Master of Public Administration from the University of Alaska, Southeast, and a Bachelor of Arts in
Economics from the University of Alaska, Anchorage. In addition, he is a graduate of the FBI National Executive
Institute and the FBI National Academy. Mr. Doll served in the U.S. Marine Corps before his law enforcement career.

Dr. Joseph J. Lestrange

Senior Consultant – Division Chief (ret.)
Dr. Lestrange joined Public Sector Search & Consulting after more than three decades
of service as a commissioned federal law enforcement officer, serving in multiple
national-level, regional and local leadership roles. Dr. Lestrange retired as Division
Chief of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Headquarters, where he was
responsible for directing global-level engagement, resource planning, strategic
development, operations coordination, budget formulation, and oversight of multiple investigative, law
enforcement and intelligence units, programs, and operational initiatives. These included oversight of the agency’s
National Gangs and Violent Crime; Human Smuggling & Trafficking; Narcotics, Firearms, and Contraband
Smuggling & Trafficking; Maritime Security, Shadow Wolves, Task Force Officers, and Trade-Based Money
Laundering programs; in addition to four inter-agency intelligence, investigations and operational support centers
serving 35+ partner agencies. He previously held several other leadership positions including Deputy Special
Agent in Charge (Public Safety & National Security).

Dr. Lestrange earned his Ph.D. in Global Leadership and Organizational Management from Indiana Tech where
he created and tested a “Values-Based” leadership framework identifying 10 universal “best practices” in
leadership spanning 29 countries and all continents across the globe. He also holds a Master of Public
Administration in Operations Management from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Arts in
Political Science from Hofstra University. Dr. Lestrange is an expert evaluator of executive talent.
 SECTION 2 – SCOPE OF SERVICES

Proposal. Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc. proposes a thorough search process using a multipronged
approach to identify a talented and diverse pool of police executives for your consideration.

Scope of Services. Our approach to executive search is both innovative and strategic. Each part of our search
and selection process is structured around the values of inclusiveness, transparency and procedural justice.
We believe trust-building activities are fundamental to the search process because engagement increases trust
and provides legitimacy for the search process and, ultimately, for the selected candidate.

Task 1 - Project Management Meeting. As the President of Public Sector Search, I will be present for the
project management meetings along with the Project Consultant, Dr. Joseph Lestrange. We will meet virtually
with the Hiring Authority and other staff as desired to discuss project management on the search and facilitate
the development of the Position Profile. In this first meeting, we will discuss and confirm the timeline, identify
roles and milestones, and collaboratively map out the entire process. Both Dr. Lestrange and I will be present,
accessible, and responsive to concerns and/or issues that may arise throughout the search.

Task 2 - Key Personnel Interviews. The Project Consultant will also interview both internal and external
stakeholders identified by the City. We typically interview key City personnel who interact with the police chief
(the hiring authority, directors of public works, human resources, finance, community development, and the
fire chief). We also engage with senior staff at the police department, selected representatives from employee
workgroups and others who can provide a perspective. The insight gained in these meetings will help us
understand the organizational needs, current priorities, structure, and culture of both the city government and
police department. We provide a scheduling link, so the City can assist in scheduling the stakeholders who can
meet with us virtually. We also review relevant documentation, such as compensation and benefits data,
financial information, and product or service literature.

Task 3 - Community Engagement Offerings. Communities vary in terms of the type and amount of
community engagement that is right for their city. As part of our initial meeting, we will discuss engagement
and agree on the desired approach. Public Sector Search proposes the following engagement methods: Two
(2) Community Forums and 5-7 Community Focus Group Sessions. We also recommend Online Surveys for
the Community and Police Department.

a. Community Forums. For community engagement to be meaningful, it must impact the search and/or
selection process. Community forums provide an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on
the characteristics and attributes candidates need to be successful as the next Ithaca Police Chief. We
will facilitate two (2) community forums in person or virtually to gather input that will help shape the
position profile and/or inform areas of inquiry when developing interview questions. We will rely on
City staff to advertise the forums through the City's traditional community networks to ensure
attendance. The City will be responsible for interpreters if needed.
b. Community Focus Group Meetings. Small community focus groups of external stakeholders (Ranges
from community partners, advocacy groups: faith, community, neighborhood, and business leaders).
These groups provide a perspective that informs the position profile and will be considered throughout
the process. Typically, we meet with 5-7 separate groups.

c. Online Police Department Survey. We will develop and host a customized online survey to provide
Police Department employees with an opportunity to participate in the search process. For this search,
the police department survey is included in our pricing.
 7

d. Community Survey. We will develop and host a customized online survey to provide another way for
the community to participate in the search and selection process. We will host the Community Survey
and provide a summary report of the survey results. Of course, the City is responsible for promoting and
advertising the survey through normal channels and translation services, if needed. For this search, the
community survey is included in our pricing.

Task 4 - Profile and Brochure. The information gleaned from the project management meeting, internal
stakeholders listening sessions, small focus group meetings, and community and department surveys will inform
the Position Profile. Once approved, we will incorporate the profile into an electronic brochure produced by our
graphic design team. The brochure is the main advertisement used in the search. The brochure informs potential
candidates about the position, department, and community while describing priorities and key performance
outcomes used to measure success in the position. The brochure will be used in all advertising mediums and
sent to every potential candidate. We also develop a landing page that compliments the brochure, and both are
used for marketing the position.

Several examples of our work can be viewed at https://publicsectorsearch.com/police-chief-recruitments/#past

Task 5 - Advertising Campaign and Outreach. We will place advertisements on several key professional
associations' websites to reach a strong and diverse candidate pool. We will also run a web campaign on
LinkedIn to specifically target current and past New York State police executives. For this search, we suggest
the following advertisement placements:

New York State Police Chiefs Association

Police Executive Research Forum
Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association
International Association of Chiefs of Police
National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives
FBI National Academy Associates
National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives

Task 6 - Identification of Qualified Candidates. We follow up with each contact and help individuals
determine whether they will be competitive for the position. We maintain a database of candidates and will
assess those individuals against the position profile. We may recruit a select few from our database who meet
the established criteria for the position. We utilize the following activities to develop the candidate pool:
a. Review of Internal Candidates – Internal candidates will experience the same evaluation process
as external candidates. Each candidate will be assessed individually on their merits, evaluated
comparatively to the entire candidate pool, and presented accordingly.
b. Original Research – We will identify candidates from other large municipalities and contact selected
individuals to determine their interest in the position. We have extensive contacts throughout the nation
to search for individuals who closely match the position profile.
c. Internet Research – We also utilize a proprietary internet tool to search for and contact police
executives who have indicated an interest in a position outside their current organization.
d. Personal Contacts – We have developed personal contacts and trustworthy relationships with
police executives throughout the nation. These individuals will recommend or nominate outstanding
candidates for the position. These recommendations have resulted in numerous police chief
placements.
 i. Intensive Follow-up – Personal outreach and intensive follow-up to the advertising and
marketing campaigns will maximize our efforts and result in a deeper candidate pool. The
Project Consultant is accountable for developing a diverse candidate pool and is solely
responsible for personally contacting the individuals who respond to the outreach.
ii. Brochure - Each prospective candidate will receive an electronic copy of the color brochure,
followed by telephone or virtual contact or an in-person meeting.
iii. Submissions - We acknowledge each submission and provide candidates with timely
updates as they move through the search and selection process.

Task 7 - Preliminary Research and Comprehensive Internet Review. We conduct comprehensive internet
research and a social media search using artificial intelligence on the recommended candidates to capture and
log each candidate’s public profile. The method captures data 99.7% related to the candidates based on our
customized keyword search. We communicate the details to the City and include the materials in the
presentation packet.

Task 8 - Screening Candidates. We subject candidates to a rigorous screening process that includes a
thorough review of their cover letter/resume with particular attention to accomplishments and experiences. We
carefully vet each candidate regarding their motivations for, and barriers to, this career move. The screening
interviews will be done via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or in person, if practical. We also challenge ambiguities
discovered in the candidates' qualifications to ensure we are accurately reporting their experience, education,
and qualifications. We also ask probing questions that help us assess whether the candidate has the requisite
knowledge and experience to succeed in the position. As we progress through the screening process, we will
schedule updates to discuss the candidate pool.

Task 9 - Additional Verifications. Public Sector Search will conduct a comprehensive background report
through First Check on all candidates we recommend. The report includes:

Address history County wants and warrants

Driving history/motor vehicle records Global homeland security search
Credit report Sex offender registry search
Federal criminal search Education verifications
National criminal search Social Security number trace

Task 10 - Presentation of Candidates. We produce a screening report based on the screening interviews,
internet profile, First Check Background Report, and information from other sources.
Community Input – Should the city desire to include representatives from the community, we suggest
they are included from this point forward through the final decision (Discussion point).
The Screening Report describes the entire candidate pool and includes the resume, cover letter, and
internet research for each candidate classified as "Recommended" or "Qualified" and a list of "Others." The
Project Consultant will meet with the Hiring Manager or their designee to present the search results and
review our recommendations. We will discuss each candidate's qualifications, present strengths, and
weaknesses in a written profile and collectively advance a group of candidates (typically 5-7) to the selection
process.

Task 11 - Selection Process. The Project Consultant will work with the Hiring Authority and their staff to
design a selection process that challenges even the strongest candidates. Every selection process should
include panel interviews.
a. First-Round Interviews. We suggest starting the process with virtual panel interviews. A variety
of panels will provide many different perspectives when assessing the candidates.
 9

i. Multiple Panels. The Project Consultant will coordinate the virtual panel interviews.
Panels may include law enforcement partners, department heads, community
partners, advocacy groups, faith community leaders, neighborhood/business
leaders, and labor groups. We develop interview questions for each panel tailored to
assess the candidate's suitability to address the City's most critical issues. The panel
interviews are followed by a debrief with the Hiring Authority Team and the
Consultant.
ii. Logistics. Public Sector Search will collaborate with staff to produce a hard
copy or electronic interview booklet for each panel member containing the EEO
guidelines, interview schedule, interview questions, and candidate materials.
iii. Debrief. The Project Consultant will facilitate the post-interview panel debriefings.
Typically, the Hiring Authority will be present during the debrief, receive direct feedback,
and advance 3-4 finalists to the next stage.

Task 12 – Finalist Process. We will work with the Hiring Authority's Office and staff to develop a process
that helps distinguish between the finalists. The finalist process may include some or all the following:
A tour of the City
A "Meet and Greet" with Department Directors, Elected and Appointed Officials
An event where police employees can meet with and question finalist candidates
A "Candidate Forum" where the public can ask the candidates questions. If this portion of
the process is socially distanced, we recommend asking the community to provide
candidate questions (Online Survey). The Project Consultant will facilitate the forum, and
the city typically streams it live via its preferred social media platform. If an in-person
community forum is appropriate, we work with the City and moderate the event.
Finalist Interviews – Hiring Authority Team

Task 13 - Negotiations and Extending the Offer. When a candidate is selected, the Project Consultant
will assist, as appropriate, with negotiations and an employment offer. Throughout this stage of the process,
we will continue to function as an agent of the City and represent the City's interests according to its
directions.

Task 14 - Closing the Search. After the offer is accepted, PSSC will contact the remaining candidates
and notify them about the outcome of the search.
 SECTION 3 - PROPOSED TIMELINE

POTENTIAL PROJECT NOTE: We will customize the project timeline after we meet
TIMELINE with the staff. Typically, a standard search process will take
90- 120 days.
STAGES OF PROCESS

Define Needs and Build Position Profile:

Execute Contract
Stage 1 Project Review – Information gathering /input
sessions

Ideal Candidate:
Stage 2 Community Engagement
Finalize the position profile with the City
Complete Brochure/Active Recruiting:
Stage 3 Complete brochure and landing page
Place advertisements
Active Recruiting:
Implement a search strategy
Stage 4 Build the candidate pool, recruit nationally
Provide weekly updates
Search Report:
Stage 5 Present Candidates (8-10 candidates)
Narrow the list to semi-finalists (5-6 candidates)
Panel Interviews: (1st Round)
Stage 6 Coordinate, schedule, and facilitate panel
interviews (virtual)
Moderate Community Forum (if desired)
Finalist Process:
Coordinate final 2-3 candidate interviews and
Stage 7 additional processes as desired
First Check backgrounds on Final 2-3
Selection & Negotiations:
Stage 8 Negotiations and Conditional offer
Background Investigation (Coordinate)

Stage 9 Transition (Typically - 4 weeks)

 11

COST PROPOSAL

Project Cost. The total cost for a national search for a Chief of Police for the City of Ithaca is a
professional services fee of $50,000, plus project expenses not to exceed $12,500. The professional
services fee includes all the project staff's time and energy devoted to this search and both community
and department surveys. It also includes two (2) trips to the City and up to five (5) working days onsite as
follows:
Project Management Meeting (Virtual)
Community Engagement (2 days on-site)
Presentation of Candidates (Virtual)
Panel Interviews -1st round (Virtual)
Finalist Process (Up to 3 days onsite)

*Project consultant(s) will take up to two (2) trips to the City and work onsite for up to 5 days. Additional
trips to the City beyond those proposed will be billed at $2000 per day (per consultant), plus travel
expenses, and must be approved in writing in advance.
Expenses – Included expenses are planned consultant travel, advertising, graphic design, brochure and
landing page development, research, internet searches, education checks, and comprehensive background
screening report on recommended candidates, social media, article searches, and court records on the
finalists.
Invoicing. We will invoice the City in three (3) progress payments, in conjunction with the identified
milestones, which will be due upon receipt. We bill for expenses with the progress payments.
Milestone Payment Schedule as Follows:

1st Payment – After the Contract is signed - $16,500

2nd Payment – After the presentation of Candidates- $16,500

3rd Payment – After the Selection Process - $17,000

Police Background Investigations (Excluded). While we conduct the First Check Background Screening
Report on the Finalist candidates, the City will be responsible for the costs of a police background
investigation on the selected candidate. We will facilitate selecting a capable firm specializing in police
executive background investigations and coordinate the timely completion of a background report.
Standard Exceptions. The City will be responsible for candidate expenses related to onsite interviews.
 PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE

Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc. offers a one-year guarantee on our full search process. If the Chief
of Police voluntarily resigns or is dismissed for cause within one year after the appointment, PSSC will
conduct another search without additional professional services charges. Our guarantee excludes internal
candidates. We expect the City of Ithaca to reimburse the firm for all incurred expenses in a subsequent
search. Our firm has never had a failed search or had a client invoke our performance guarantee.
Additionally, if the first search attempt does not produce the desired candidate, PSSC will conduct an
additional search and work with the City until a candidate is appointed. (We have never had to complete a
secondary search either) We would expect the City to reimburse the firm for all incurred expenses in a
subsequent search. Last, we will never recruit our placement while they remain employed by the City of
Ithaca.
 13

REFERENCES

Our references will attest to our ability to lead a process to a successful conclusion.
Mr. Mark Washington
City of Grand Rapids, MI – pop. 200,000
City Manager
(817) 689-6571
mwashington@grand-rapids.mi.us
Recruitment: Chief of Police – 2021
Mr. Anthony Ruggerio
Former City Administrator
City of Beacon, NY
(845) 670-3319
Recruitment: Chief of Police – 2020
aruggiero@dutchessny.gov

Dr. Rose M. Nichols, Ed. D, SHRM-CP

Director
Department of Human Resource Management
City of Rochester
City Hall - Room 103-A
(585 )428-6509
(585) 557-1178 work cell
Recruitment: Chief of Police – 2020
rose.nichols@cityofrochester.gov
PSSC recruitment in the past five (5) years.
Current Searches
Killeen, TX – Police Chief
Pittsburgh, PA – Police Chief
Forest Grove, OR – Chief of Police
St, Joseph, MO – Chief of Police
Forest Grove, OR – Police Chief
Cal Poly Pomona – Lieutenant
Cal State University San Bernardino-Police Chief
Completed – 2022
Atlanta, GA – Chief of Police
Lakewood, WA – Police Chief
Cal State Fullerton – Chief of Police
Wichita, KS – Chief of Police
Kansas City, MO – Police Chief
Shaker Heights, OH – Police Chief
Western Washington University – Police Chief
Laramie, WY – Police Chief
Seattle, WA – Chief of Police
Minneapolis, MN – Chief of Police
Grand Rapids, MI - Chief of Police
Carnegie Mellon University - Chief of Police
Edgewater, CO - Chief of Police
MTA, NY – Chief of Police
Irving, TX – Chief of Police
California Poly Pomona – Chief of Police
Rochester, NY – Chief of Police
Completed - 2021
Northern Illinois University -Police Chief
Steamboat Springs, CO - Police Chief
Lansing, MI - Chief of Police
Albuquerque, NM - Deputy Chief of Police
Fort Lauderdale, FL – Chief of Police
Raleigh, NC - Chief of Police
Pensacola, FL - Police Chief
Lancaster, PA - Police Chief
Lacey, WA - Chief of Police
San Jose, CA - Police Chief
Tiburon, CA - Police Chief
San Luis Obispo, CA - Chief of Police
Opa-Locka, FL - Police Chief
Bellevue, WA - Assistant Chief
Northglenn, CO - Deputy Chief
Completed -2020
Dallas, TX - Police Chief
Beacon, NY - Chief of Police
Nashville, TN - Chief of Police
Boulder, CO - Chief of Police
Charles S. Mott CC, Flint, MI - Director
Completed -2019
Yakima, WA - Police Chief
Redmond, WA - Chief of Police
Payson, AZ - Police Chief
Grand Rapids, MI - Chief of Police
Completed -2018
Seattle, WA - Chief of Police
Seaside, CA - Chief of Police
Albany, NY - Police Chief
Syracuse, NY - Police Chief
University at Buffalo (SUNY) - Chief of Police
Rohnert Park, CA - Director of Public Safety
 Mr. Gary Peterson
CEO/President
6520 Lonetree Blvd., Suite1040
Rocklin, CA 95765
(916) 798-9990
(916) 622-5323 (Direct)
Email: gary@publicsectorsearch.com
Website: www.publicsectorsearch.com
From: HR Dept on behalf of HR Dept <hrdept@cityofithaca.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 22, 2022 4:29 PM
To: HR Dept
Subject: Job Openings and Exam
Attachments: Police Chief #69-279.pdf; Sidewalk Program Manager - Reissued.pdf; Supervisor of
Electrical Services.pdf; Building and Grounds Maintenance Worker - Internal Posting.pdf

Hi Everyone,

The City of Ithaca is accepting applications for the following openings and Exam:

Police Chief Exam No. 69-279

Building and Grounds Maintenance Worker - Internal Posting - Permanent Employees Only

Sidewalk Program Manager

Supervisor of Electrical Services

Interested applicants can apply at https://ithaca-portal.mycivilservice.com/. The postings are

attached. Please post for those who do not have access to e-mail.

City of Ithaca Civil Service Employment Portal

Upcoming Civil Service Exams. The civil service examination for each position is unique to the position. The
examination announcements listed below provide information regarding the examinations that are
currently available.

ithaca-portal.mycivilservice.com

Thank you,

City of Ithaca
Human Resources Department
108 E. Green St.
Ithaca, NY 14850
(607) 274-6539 - phone
(607) 274-6574 - fax

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 - -
- - -

-
-

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 CITY OF ITHACA
108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850-5690

OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES / CIVIL SERVICE

Telephone: 607 / 274-6539 Fax: 607 / 274-6574 E-mail: hrdept@cityofithaca.org

POLICE CHIEF – TYPE C

OPEN-COMPETITIVE EXAM NO. 69-279
APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL: EXAMINATION WILL BE HELD:

February 9, 2023 March 25, 2023

<<NOTE: A promotional examination is being held in conjunction with this open-competitive

examination. In the event that a vacancy occurs in a department or agency for which a promotional list
exists, the promotional list shall be used first.>>

ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS: Applications must be received by the City of Ithaca Human

Resources Department no later than 4:30 PM EST on the last filing date indicated above.
Applications must be submitted electronically through our online application program at
https://ithaca-portal.mycivilservice.com. We do not accept paper applications, faxed applications, e-
mailed applications or photocopies of applications.

APPLICATION MATERIALS REQUIRED: A City of Ithaca application, copy of high school and
college transcript, and copy of driver license.

VACANCIES: Currently, there is one (1) vacancy in the City of Ithaca Police Department. The eligible
list established as a result of this examination may be used to fill this vacancy and any future vacancies
that may occur during the life of the eligible list.

RESIDENCY: There are no residency requirements for this exam. Preference in certification may be
given to candidates who are residents of the municipality in which appointment is to be made, provided
that the candidate is a resident of such municipality at the time of examination and remains a resident
of such municipality continuously thereafter, up to and including the dates of certification and
appointment.

SALARY: $110,460 - $132,552

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is the principal administrative position of the
Police Department. The position provides administrative oversight to the Police Department and
maintains collaborative relationships with the County-wide public safety dispatch center and other
regional law enforcement agencies, as well as mental health and human service providers and law
enforcement assisted diversion programs. The work involves significant community engagement and
public involvement with elected officials, educational institutions, residents (especially communities
disproportionately impacted by law enforcement), neighborhood groups, and other governmental
agencies and City departments. The Police Chief has complete charge and responsibility for all police
functions and requires exceptional ability to plan and direct law enforcement activities on a large scale.
This position is responsible for transformational leadership for police operations and is focused on
community and law enforcement partnerships, and problem solving. The Police Chief is also
Police Chief – Type C Exam No. 69-279
Page 2

responsible for seeing that the police force is thoroughly trained and that high standards are maintained.
As a member of the City’s senior management team, the Police Chief collaborates with the Mayor’s
Office, City Council, and other City departments on strategy and policy to ensure that the City’s mission
and core values are incorporated into operational activities and services. The work is performed under
the general direction of the Mayor, in accordance with federal and state law and regulations, inter-local
and agency agreements, the City’s municipal code, policies, and procedures, and the objectives and
priorities of the Mayor and Common Council. General supervision is exercised over the activities of all
subordinate members of the police force and civilian personnel. Does related work as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with
a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Police Science, Criminology or a closely related field
with similar course curriculum and four (4) years of progressively responsible law enforcement
experience, at least two (2) years of which must have been at or above the second-line
supervisory level; or

B. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college with an
Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Police Science, Criminology or a closely related field
with similar course curriculum and six (6) years of progressively responsible law enforcement
experience, at least two (2) years of which must have been at or above the second-line
supervisory level; or

C. Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and eight (8)
years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, at least two (2) years of which
must have been at or above the second-line supervisory level.

NOTE: “Second-line” supervision refers to the second level of supervisory authority in an agency. For
the purpose of these qualifications, it must include the supervision of supervisory law enforcement
officers. In the Ithaca Police Department, for example, it would equate to the level of Police Lieutenant.
Second-line supervisory experience must have been gained through an actual appointment into a
second-line supervisory position. “Acting” or “out-of-title” second-line supervisory experience is not
qualifying experience.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Possession of a valid New York State Class D driver license or a valid driver license equivalent
to a New York State Class D driver license at the time of appointment and maintenance of said
license for the duration of employment.

2. Notwithstanding the provisions of any other section of law, general, special or local, in political
subdivisions maintaining a police department serving a population of one hundred fifty thousand or
less, no person shall be appointed to any rank above the rank of police officer unless he or she has
been appointed a police officer from an eligible list established according to merit and fitness as
provided by Section 6 of Article V of the Constitution of the State of New York, or has previously
served as a member of the New York State Police.
Police Chief – Type C Exam No. 69-279
Page 3

If you expect to complete the educational requirement within six (6) months of the date of examination,
you can be admitted to this examination. If successful on the examination, you will not be certified for
appointment until you have submitted proof of completion of the requirements to the Civil Service
Commission. Proof must be submitted within eight months of the date of examination. Failure to do so
will result in removal of your name from the eligible list.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: Applicants may be required to undergo a State and national

criminal history background investigation, which will include a fingerprint check, to determine
suitability for appointment. Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result
in disqualification.

SCOPE OF THE EXAMINATION: The written examination will cover knowledges, skills and/or abilities
in such areas as:

1. Knowledge of law enforcement methods, practices, and procedures

These questions test for knowledge of accepted police methods and practices and/or their
application to situations in the police field. The questions are a sampling of the various knowledge
that police personnel may be required to possess in the course of their day-to-day, work-related
activities. Areas covered include investigation procedures, patrol techniques, police-community
relations, courtroom procedures, personnel practices, policy making and budgeting procedures.

2. Knowledge of New York State laws – Criminal

These questions test the candidates' knowledge of the laws in effect on January 1, 2023. This portion
of the test is a sampling of the various sections of the law that police personnel may encounter in
the course of their day-to-day work-related activities. Laws covered may include the Penal Law,
Criminal Procedure Law, Vehicle and Traffic Law, Family Court Act, and other laws relevant to law
enforcement in New York State.

3. Police Administrative Supervision and Administration

These questions test for the knowledge of managerial functions involved in directing the operations
of a B or C level police department as well as the knowledge of the principles and practices involved
in supervising a large subordinate staff, including subordinate supervisors. These questions cover
such areas as: developing objectives and formulating policies; forecasting and planning; organizing
and coordinating; informing and instructing; guiding and leading; decision-making and problem
solving; communicating effectively; staffing and staff development; time management; assigning
work and evaluating performance; handling conflict and grievances; and budgeting.

4. Job simulation exercises in police administration

This job simulation exercise will cover such areas as: human resources management, prioritizing,
problem-solving, public relations, and police procedure.
Police Chief – Type C Exam No. 69-279
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5. Understanding and interpreting written material

These questions test how well you comprehend written material. You will be provided with brief
reading selections and will asked questions about the selections. All the information required to
answer the questions will be presented in the selections; you will not be required to have any special
knowledge relating to the subject areas of the selections.

6. Preparing written material in a police setting

These questions test for the ability to prepare the types of reports that police personnel write. Some
questions test for the ability to present information clearly and accurately. They consist of
restatements of information given in note form. You must choose the best version from each set of
four choices. Other questions test for the ability to organize paragraphs. They consist of paragraphs
with their sentences out of order. For each of the paragraphs you must choose, from four
suggestions, the best order of the sentences.

7. Job simulation exercise in police command

This job simulation exercise will cover such areas as: management of operations, decision-making
under pressure, public relations, and police procedure.

A Guide for the Written Test for Police Chief/Assistant Chief is available at the New York State
website: https://www.cs.ny.gov/testing/testguides.cfm. Candidates not having access to a computer
or the internet may request copy of the test guide from the municipal civil service office conducting
this examination using the contact information found elsewhere on this announcement.

NOTE: Most Civil Service examinations do not require the use of a quiet, hand-held calculator or slide
rule; however, candidates have the option of bringing a battery-operated or solar-powered calculator to
the test room unless specifically notified that their use is prohibited. Devices with typewriter keyboards,
spell checkers, Personal Digital Assistants, Address Books, Language Translators, Dictionaries, or any
similar devices are prohibited. USE OF CALCULATORS IS PROHIBITED FOR THIS EXAM.

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION - CANDIDATES WITH DISABILITIES - MILITARY MEMBERS:

Applicants whose religious beliefs or military service prevent their taking examinations on the
scheduled date and candidates with disabilities who require special accommodations to take the
test should indicate the need for special arrangements on their application. Candidates who are
called to military service after filing an application should send requests for an alternate test date
to the City of Ithaca Human Resources/Civil Service Department before the test date.

Military Service Members: If you apply for an examination during the filing period but are on
active military duty on the date the examination is scheduled, you may request a military makeup
examination. Contact the City of Ithaca Human Resources/Civil Service Department for more
information. If you are on active duty or discharged after the filing period has begun, you may
apply for the examination up to ten days before the test date.
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SECTION 23.2 STATEMENT: This examination will be prepared and rated in accordance with Section
23(2) of the Civil Service Law. The provisions of New York State Civil Service Law, Rules and
Regulations dealing with the preparation and rating of examinations will apply to this examination.

TIME AND PLACE OF THE EXAMINATION: Approved candidates will be notified by mail regarding
the time and place of the examination. If notice of approval or disapproval is not received three (3) days
prior to the exam date, please call the City of Ithaca Human Resources/Civil Service Department at
(607) 274-6539.

MULTIPLE EXAMINATIONS SCHEDULED FOR THE SAME DAY: If you have applied to take a
written test announced by either one or several local jurisdictions (county, town, city) scheduled to
be held on the same test date as this written test, you must notify each of the local jurisdictions no
later than two weeks before the test date, so they can make arrangements for taking all tests at one
test site. All examinations for positions in State government will be held at a State examination
center.

VETERANS CREDIT: Veterans or disabled veterans who are eligible for additional credit must submit
an application for veterans credit with their application for examination or at any time between the dates
of their application for examination and the date of the establishment of the resulting eligible list.
Applications for veterans credit are available from this office. Veterans credits can only be added to a
passing score on the examination.

Effective January 1, 1998, the State Constitution was amended to permit a candidate currently in the
armed forces to apply for and be conditionally granted veterans credit in examinations. Any candidate
who applies for such credit must provide proof of military status to receive the conditional credit. No
credit may be granted after the establishment of the list. It is the responsibility of the candidate to
provide appropriate documentary proof of military service, and verification that the candidate received
an honorable discharge or was released under honorable conditions in order to be certified at a score
including veterans credits.

ADDITIONAL CREDIT FOR CHILDREN OF FIREFIGHTERS AND POLICE OFFICERS KILLED IN

THE LINE OF DUTY: In conformance with section 85-a of the Civil Service Law, children of firefighters
and police officers killed in the line of duty shall be entitled to receive an additional ten points in a
competitive examination for original appointment in the same municipality in which his or her parent
has served. If you are qualified to participate in this examination and are a child of a firefighter or police
officer killed in the line of duty in this municipality, please inform this office of this matter when you
submit your application for examination. A candidate claiming such credit has a minimum of two months
from the application deadline to provide the necessary documentation to verify additional credit
eligibility. However, no credit may be added after the eligible list has been established.

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION

1. Falsification of any part of your employment application will result in disqualification.

2. Applicants must answer every question on the application and make sure that the application is
complete in all respects. Incomplete applications will be disapproved.
Police Chief – Type C Exam No. 69-279
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3. Candidates who wish to take more than one examination must submit an application for each
examination. If you are cross-filing for another examination to be held on the same date, please
indicate this on the application and specify the examination title and number, and the jurisdiction
offering the other examination.

4. Appointments from an eligible list must be made from the top three candidates willing to accept
appointment. The duration of an eligible list may be fixed for a minimum period of one (1) year and
a maximum period of four (4) years.

5. It is the responsibility of the candidate to notify the City of Ithaca Human Resources/Civil Service
Department of any change in address. No attempt will be made to locate candidates who have
moved.

Issued by: City of Ithaca Civil Service Commission

December 20, 2022

The City of Ithaca is committed to Equity and Inclusion. We encourage those with similar values
to apply.
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From: Schelley Michell-Nunn on behalf of Schelley Michell-Nunn <SMichell-
Nunn@cityofithaca.org>
Sent: Thursday, January 5, 2023 2:10 PM
To: mwashington@grand-rapids.mi.us
Subject: Public Sector Search and Consulting

Good Day,

I received your contact information from Gary Peterson from the above-named search firm. I understand that
his firm assisted you with hiring a police chief in 2021. I would like to speak with you or someone from your
organization who could provide information on your experience. The City of Ithaca is considering using them
to fill our police chief position after a failed search.

I am happy to set up a time to speak, no more than 15 minutes or if it is easier to respond by email, please do.
Thank you for your time.

Best Regards,

Schelley Michell-Nunn
Director of Human Resources
City of Ithaca
108 E. Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
607-274-6539 (W)
607-274-6574 (F)

“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream
and find out why they’re falling in.”

― Desmond Tutu