Police Chief candidates Meet-and-Greet - City of Edmonds, WA

The City of Edmonds is progressing in its search for a new Police Chief, featuring three qualified finalists: Dante Orlandi, Michelle Bennett, and Lawrence Hunter. Public interviews will occur on August 4, 2021, with the Mayor meeting each candidate beforehand, followed by a community meet-and-greet in the Plaza Room above the Edmonds Library. Orlandi, a retired Major from the Pennsylvania State Police, brings extensive management experience, while Bennett, the Acting Police Chief, has a strong background in law enforcement leadership within Washington State. Hunter, a retired Captain from the Waterbury Police Department, has significant experience in crisis intervention and policing standards. The recruitment process, managed by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, involved stakeholder interviews and a community survey to tailor the selection to local needs.

Attendees at the meet-and-greet will have the opportunity to engage directly with the candidates and provide feedback through an online survey afterward. This transparent approach to selecting a new Police Chief highlights the City’s commitment to community involvement in law enforcement leadership. The event promises to foster dialogue between the candidates and the public, ensuring that the next chief aligns with the values and needs of Edmonds residents.