MPD Acting Chief Norman 1 of 3 finalists for Wauwatosa police chief position

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Acting Chief Jeffrey Norman is now closer to a job with a different department, but the president of the Common Council is fighting to keep Norman in Milwaukee.

Council President Cavalier Johnson says Milwaukee has the right man for the job in Acting Chief Norman.

But before they can commit to Norman, the city needs to settle a lawsuit with the last top cop.

As Acting Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman closes in on a new job as Wauwatosa police chief, Milwaukee Common Council President Cavalier Johnson called on the Fire and Police Commission to lock him in.

"This is like the needle in the haystack," Johnson said. "This is like the unicorn, and we have him in place as chief right now and I desperately would like to keep him as chief and not lose him to a municipality that quite literally, is right across the street."

Norman is one of three finalists for the Wauwatosa police chief position.

The Wauwatosa Equity and Inclusion Commission advises on who should be hired, and says Norman would be a great addition.

"I have heard glowing reviews from his role as the acting chief in Milwaukee from various community leaders," said Sean Lowe, chair of the commission. "That's pleasing to me and that's definitely encouraging news."

Looming over the situation is a lawsuit from former Police Chief Alfonso Morales, who a judge ruled was improperly demoted last August.

Attorney Frank Gimbel says he asked the city last week to have a sit-down meeting and pay out Morales' remaining contract.

"We have had no affirmative response from the city on either of our requests and the ball is in their court," Gimbel said. 

The judge ruled if a settlement isn't reached, Morales will be reinstated as chief. 

"The chief will shine his shoes and get out his uniform and get back in the Public Administration Building in July."

The judge's order kicks in 30 days from now, so regardless of a contract for Norman, Morales would become chief if a settlement is not reached.