Local leaders react to Milwaukee police chief applying for job in Texas
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As Milwaukee's police chief searches for a new job, city leaders are confident in his ability to continue serving the people of Milwaukee.
Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffery Norman is one of 32 people being considered for the same position in Austin, Texas.
"I know that the chief has submitted his application to the City of Austin to serve as police chief there," Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson said. "I don't know further details just yet about how this is going to play out, but I have always wished Jeff Norman well, and I will continue to do that now."
"Any concerns that [Chief Norman's] mind might be elsewhere as we get into a really busy summer here in Milwaukee?" CBS 58 Reporter Stephanie Rodriguez asked.
"Absolutely not. Absolutely not," Johnson said. "Jeff Norman is a son of Milwaukee; he is committed to doing the job here in Milwaukee while he's in that office. I have no concerns at all that Jeff Norman is going to see the job through."
Vice Chair of the Public Safety and Health Committee, District 11 Alderman Peter Burgelis, said that no matter what happens, he is confident the city is in good hands with the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD).
"It's surprising, but everyone has their own personal journey, their own professional journey, and I think Chief Norman has had a great start in Milwaukee with the work that he's started, but we know the work isn't done for the police department and there's a lot more to be done in the future," Burgelis said. "We don't know that he's accepted an offer. We know that the chief leads a team and has a very talented command staff where everyone is working toward the same goal: to have a safe RNC and to have a safe Summer here in Milwaukee after the RNC."
In a statement, the MPD said, "Chief Norman's applicant status has no bearing on the Chief's commitment to the City of Milwaukee, and the safety and well-being of all residents."
Mayor Johnson said if the city does have to replace Norman, he is sure there will be plenty of candidates for the job.
"I think there will be a lot of interest and good quality people to serve as police chief in the city of Milwaukee," Johnson said.
CBS 58 reached out to MPD to speak to Chief Norman about this and was told that he is "respecting the hiring process" and is not accommodating any interviews at this time.