With Chief Chris Albright set to retire this year, Ferguson Township has officially begun the search for its police department’s next leader.
Applications are now open online for law enforcement leaders interested in the position, which township officials hope to fill before the end of 2022.
“Ferguson Township seeks a police professional committed to community engagement with an inclusive approach both inside the police department and Ferguson Township as well as within the Centre Region,” a news release on Monday stated. “The chief will possess interpersonal skills and demonstrated leadership and management experience in law enforcement.”
Albright submitted his intent to retire to the Board of Supervisors and township Manager Centrice Martin in June. He has been with the Ferguson Township Police Department for 30 years, including the last five as chief.
Sgt. Ryan Hendrick began serving as officer-in-charge on Friday. Albright’s anticipated retirement date is expected to be Nov. 18, but he indicated in his retirement letter that he planned to use vacation and personal days beginning in late August.
“On behalf of Ferguson Township, we thank Chief Albright for his dedication and service to Ferguson Township Police Department for 30 years,” Martin said in a statement.
Albright’s successor will oversee a department covering about 50 square miles with 22 sworn police officers, two full-time administrative personnel, a part-time ordinance enforcement officer and two part-time crossing guards.
The township contracted with public management consulting firm GovHR in July to assist with the recruitment of a new police chief. The process began on July 20 with input from 22 stakeholder interviewees, including the Board of Supervisors and township leadership team, the police department and local and regional partners.
Residents will have an opportunity to complete a survey that will help guide the selection. The public will have an opportunity to meet the finalist candidates, as well, according to the release.
Recruitment will involve a local, regional and national search. The township anticipates finalist interviews will take place in late October with the intent of a new chief being hired and starting in the position by December.
