HOLYOKE – The search for a new Police Chief has been extended by two weeks after one of the two finalists for the position withdrew his candidacy, according to Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. The Mayor’s scheduled final interview of the finalist/s for the position of Police Chief has been postponed. That interview session had been planned for Wednesday, October. 30.
The interviews would have concluded a competitive selection process facilitated by Public Safety Consultants, LLC.
“I want to be certain that the best possible finalists are identified by the Search Committee before we take the final steps in the process,” Garcia said.
The extended application process will close on November 11.
Following the July 31 retirement of former Chief David Pratt, the Mayor’s Office launched a search for Police Chief candidates. A Search Committee, composed of city officials, community leaders, and law enforcement personnel, reviewed applications, conducted interviews, and assessed candidates through a rigorous evaluation process. The process included a public listening session, public surveys, and an assessment in which candidates participate in a series of exercises that simulate critical aspects of the job.
Mayor Garcia said the date and time of the rescheduled interviews will be posted on the City website and publicized in the area news media. The public will be invited to the interview session. Individuals unable to attend in person will be welcome to join via Holyoke Media, or via a Zoom link that will be publicized prior to the rescheduled interview session.