Ferndale, the “City of Opportunity,” is located in the northwest corner of Washington State in Whatcom County, along the Nooksack River and on the Interstate 5 corridor. The City was incorporated on March 19, 1907, and operates under a Mayor-Council form of government. With a population of just under 17,000 residents, the City provides a full range of municipal services, including Police, Planning, Buildings, Streets, Parks, and Utilities. The annual budget for 2025 is approximately $68 million, and the City employs 90 FTEs. Ferndale is a high-growth community, and the City’s population is expected to grow to over 20,000 residents in the next 10 years. Ferndale is located about halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. This close proximity to major cities is complemented by the serenity and pristine nature of the area’s surroundings. Western Washington University, Whatcom Community College, Northwest Indian College, and Bellingham Technical College are located within 20 minutes of the City and offer accessible higher education opportunities. The community enjoys more than 120 acres of parkland and facilities within City limits, as well as major lakes, streams, and forested areas. The Salish Sea is to the west, and world record-holding Mount Baker Ski Area is an hour east.
The Department
The Ferndale Police Department completed the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC) rigorous accreditation program in November of 2023 and is proud to be one of only two accredited law enforcement agencies in Whatcom County. The Ideal Candidate The City of Ferndale is seeking a Chief of Police who is a forward thinker, capable of leading the Police Department through a period in which the City is rapidly growing in population and is transitioning from a community of rural character into a medium-sized city. The Department is well-prepared for this transition, and the new Chief will lead an agency that has become a recognized model for departments of its size. The successful individual must have proven experience and knowledge in the application of state and federal laws, codes, ordinances, policies, and procedures in law enforcement. The ideal candidate must have strong interpersonal skills as well as a collaborative management style, good judgment and political awareness in working with elected officials, residents, and staff. This person must be able to address difficult situations effectively and have a strong customer service commitment. This Chief of Police serves on the City’s management team, reporting directly to the City Administrator, and participates in the development and success of the collective goals of the City, engages in the decision-making process, and supports the decisions made.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a law enforcement-related field and 10 years of law enforcement experience, including a minimum of 3 years in police supervision as a Police Sergeant or higher rank. Candidates who have been out of active law enforcement for more than 24 months will not be considered for this position. Management experience at a police agency equal in size to Ferndale or larger is desirable. Licensing and certification: • Valid Washington State driver’s license (or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire) with a clean driving record free from serious or frequent violations. • Applicant must meet the requirements of RCW 43.101.095, Peace Officer Certification. • Successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation that includes a Polygraph, Psychological Evaluation, Medical Evaluation, and Drug Testing.
Compensation
The City of Ferndale has established an annual salary range of $145,000 to $170,00 for this position. Starting salary is dependent upon experience and qualifications. The City also provides an excellent benefit package: • 25 days of vacation leave per year, accruing on a perpay-period basis • 15 holidays per year • 15 sick leave days per year, accruing on a per-payperiod basis • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance • Employer-provided deferred compensation • Basic life insurance coverage plus option for additional coverage • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Membership in professional organizations • Retirement through Washington State Retirement Systems (LEOFF II)
The Position is Open Until February 10, 2025.
HOW TO APPLY
To be eligible for consideration, please submit: • A resume (three page maximum) • A detailed cover letter (two page maximum) describing your experience, leadership style, and why you are interested in the position. Resume and cover letter must be submitted electronically to Rachelle Harwood at Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC) by close of business on February 10, 2025. Email: rharwood@waspc.org Phone: 360-486-2380