By BJ Austin, KERA Reporter
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-782239.mp3
Dallas, TX – Fort Worth has picked a new Police Chief. KERA's BJ Austin reports that he is a 20-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department.
Fort Worth City Manager Dale Fisseler says after a nationwide search, Phoenix Police Commander Jeff Halstead is his choice to replace Chief Ralph Mendoza, who retired earlier this year. Fisseler says Halstead will continue department improvements and provide leadership in a new era of labor relations. Two years ago, voters approved "limited bargaining" for police, and "meet and confer" salary and workplace negotiations began for the first time earlier this year. In Phoenix, Police Sgt. Tommy Thompson says Fort Worth made a very good choice.
Thompson: I believe him to be a very fair individual, and I think your officers will like him. He's progressive, as far as he likes labor and management to get along and work together to achieve goals. Your pick up on this is certainly our loss. Fort Worth will do very, very well to have him as their Chief.
The City Council must approve the selection and is expected to do that November 11. Halstead will begin his new duties in December.