City Launches Public Survey As Part Of Police Commissioner Search

PHILADELPHIA — The City of Philadelphia has launched a survey for residents to weigh in on its search for a new police commissioner.

"As with all City personnel decisions, the interview process will be conducted internally within the government; however, we know that residents deserve a voice in this important appointment," said Mayor Jim Kenney. “So we have launched a survey to gather the public’s feedback on what issues they think are most important, on what characteristics the next Commissioner should have, and to provide any other feedback they think we should consider in our search. The results will help inform our decision."

Residents can complete the survey online here.

You can also download a hard copy and mail to the Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement, 1401 JFK Blvd, Room 115, Philadelphia, PA 19107. Hard copies are also available and can be picked up in the Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement, City Hall, Room 115.

The City is embarking on a targeted search that includes internal and external candidates to take over for the position held by Richard Ross and now Christine M. Coulter is serving as acting commissioner.

Ross resigned after allegations of sexual harassment as well as gender and racial discrimination among the Philadelphia Police Department's rank and file came out.

Over the next several months, a diverse team of officials will be working with the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), a police research and policy organization that also provides management services and technical assistance to law enforcement agencies.

"PERF will support the City in outreach, identifying qualified candidates, and the interview process," said Managing Director Brian Abernathy. "This organization has assisted other large cities with similar searches, and with their support, we expect that we will find the right person to lead our police department by the end of the calendar year."