Business Item 5a
STAFF REPORT
City Council Business Item
DATE: March 19, 2025
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
FROM: Amy Nilsen, City Manager
SUBJECT: Consider appointing Lieutenant Matthew A. Eberhardt as Interim Police Chief STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
The Fortuna City Council consider appointing Lieutenant Matthew A. Eberhardt as Interim Police Chief at a salary to be determined, effective March 29, 2025, with all other terms of his existing employment arrangement remaining in place.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
On March 14, 2025, the current Police Chief, Casey Day, provided written notice to the City Manager of his plans to resign by March 28, 2025. In preparation for the vacancy, it is recommended that Lieutenant Matthew A. Eberhardt serve as the Interim Police Chief. The term of the appointment will begin on March 29, 2025, and Mr. Eberhart will continue to serve at the pleasure of the City Council pending a recruitment process to be commenced in the future and no longer than an 18-month term.
Mr. Eberhardt began his career with the Fortuna Police Department in March of 1998. Prior to that he worked for a year with the City of Ferndale. Mr. Eberhardt was promoted to the position of Lieutenant in July of 2011, and holds basic, advanced, supervisory and management POST certificates.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The anticipated financial impact is within the current budget and within the anticipated salary range for fiscal year 2025-26.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
1. Receive staff report and review questions with staff.
2. Open public comment.
3. Close public comment.
4. Motion to approve and appoint Lieutenant Matthew A. Eberhardt as Interim Police Chief at a salary to be determined, effective March 29, 2025, with all other terms of his existing employment arrangement remaining in place. Voice Vote.