Title
A Resolution Confirming the Mayor’s Appointment of Vincent B. Niski as Police Chief
Presenter:
John Suthers, Mayor
Body
Summary:
City Charter Article IV, Section 4-40(f) requires the Mayor to appoint a Police Chief to serve at the Mayor’s pleasure, subject to confirmation by the concurring vote of a majority of members of City Council.
The duties of the Police Chief as a peace officer are prescribed by Colorado statute and City Code Chapter 8, Article I.
The proposed resolution would confirm the Mayor’s appointment of Vincent B. Niski as the Police Chief for the City of Colorado Springs, replacing Peter Carey who retired as the City’s Police Chief on February 1, 2019. If confirmed, the Mayor will immediately administer the Oath of Office to the new Police Chief.
Previous Council Action:
No prior Council action has been taken with regard to appointment of Police Chief following the retirement of Peter Carey on February 1, 2019.
Background:
Vincent B. Niski joined the Colorado Springs Police Department in February of 1989. He was promoted to sergeant in 1997. While in this position, he worked in Patrol; Traffic; and Metro Vice, Narcotics and Intelligence Division.
He was promoted to lieutenant in 2007 and was assigned to the Sand Creek Patrol Division and then worked in the Specialized Enforcement Division. Before he was promoted to the rank of commander in 2011, he served as interim commander of the Specialized Enforcement Division for approximately one year.
Upon his promotion to Commander, he was assigned to the Stetson Hills Division. He was promoted to the rank of Deputy Chief in 2012. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Northern Colorado. He is a graduate of the Center for Creative Leadership and Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police.
Financial Implications:
Vincent B. Niski’s initial annual salary will be set at $185,000, together with applicable benefits. Such salary is within the range for Police Chief as established by the City’s 2019 salary structure for civilian and sworn municipal employees.
Board/Commission Recommendation:
Stakeholders, including the Mayor, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resources Officer, and representatives of the City Council, have been involved in the review of candidates for the position of Police Chief and concur with the recommendation for confirmation of Vincent B. Niski as Police Chief.
Stakeholder Process:
N/A
Alternatives:
Do not approve the proposed resolution.
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
Approve a Resolution Confirming the Mayor’s Appointment of Vincent B. Niski as Police Chief
Summary of Ordinance Language
N/A