The city of Pacific has a new police chief.

On Monday at a regular council meeting, the city announced Stephen Craig Schwartz as its new top cop. His first day on the job was June 11.

Schwartz comes to Pacific after a long career at the Santa Rosa (Calif.) Police Department, having risen through the ranks from police officer to sergeant to lieutenant before retiring as captain in 2018. Prior to his service in Santa Rosa, David was a Naval officer and a student aviator.

According to Richard Gould, city administrator, the selection process was long and meticulous.

The city contacted the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs to direct the nationwide search. Mayor Leanne Guier chose business leaders and residents for the two interview panels: a directors and a community panel. Interviews took place over two days in early May, culminating in a citywide open house with the public and the top three candidates.

Gould said Chief Schwartz brings to the city a broad background of more than 25 years working in Santa Rosa. While there, Schwartz was an instructor on the non-lethal use of force methods. He also served with the city’s SWAT team and has experience with gang crimes units.

In addition to his police experience, Schwartz has been an adjunct professor, teaching law enforcement leadership, and a firearms instructor.

Schwartz succeeds former Police Chief John Calkins, who retired in July 2018. Michael Sanford was the interim chief.