“The Division of Police is charged with the critical mission of keeping all of our residents safe. Following the retirement of Chief Kimberley Jacobs in February, we will launch a national search for our next chief of police. This bold, historic move is something I fought for and won in arbitration because the people of Columbus and our police officers deserve the very best person to fill this role, whether that person comes from inside or outside the division.

“As your mayor, I want to hear from you about what we need in a chief of police. In the coming weeks, I will roll out our plan for a national search and how you can be involved.

“Like you, I have high expectations for the next chief of police. I am looking for a change agent who will pursue innovation and excellence in policing, someone who will use the recommendations of the resident-led Safety Advisory Commission as a roadmap to guide the Division. I am looking for someone committed to increasing diversity among police officers, aligning how we police with community expectations, and approaching this position as an opportunity to serve and protect every person in every neighborhood.

“In the next few weeks, I will release more information about our search. I appreciate the leadership of Chief Jacobs and want to continue to build on her efforts to adapt to the needs of Columbus to keep our neighborhoods safe.”