Next police chief would earn $92,000 to $110,000 and be expected to work patrol, city posting says

Howe has put a price on its police chief job: $92,000 to $110,000 a year, depending on qualifications and experience and subject to City Council approval.

The range appears in the city's formal job posting, published on its website Oct. 27. The opening follows the resignation of Chief Jake Sullivan in October; Lt. Seth Sparks has been running the department as officer in charge while the city searches.

A chief who also patrols

The posting makes clear the job is not a desk-only post in a department Howe's size. Along with running the budget, writing policy, hiring and disciplining officers and reporting to the city administrator, the chief is expected to regularly handle patrol, investigations and field work, respond to critical incidents, attend community events and attend City Council meetings.

The city also spells out that the chief must make sure complaints and misconduct allegations are reviewed or investigated, and must promote accountability and a culture that supports public trust.

Who can apply

Minimum requirements are a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid Texas driver's license, a current Texas peace officer license in good standing, at least five years of full-time sworn law enforcement experience and at least two years of supervisory or command experience.

The city says it prefers applicants who hold a Master Peace Officer certificate from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and who have served as a chief, assistant chief, lieutenant or sergeant, or in a similar command role. Experience managing a municipal police budget and conducting internal investigations is also listed as a plus.

The job comes with health, vision and dental coverage, membership in the Texas Municipal Retirement System and paid time off. Finalists face a background investigation, reference checks, a polygraph, a psychological evaluation and drug testing.

How to apply

The position is open until filled. Applicants must turn in a city application and a Personal History Statement packet; a resume can be added but does not replace them. Packets can be dropped off at City Hall, 116 E. Haning St., or mailed to the City of Howe at P.O.

Box 518, Howe, TX 75459. The posting also allows resumes to be emailed to the city administrator and city secretary.

Sources

cityofhowetx.gov