Chief of Police

The City of Gunnison is a welcoming Colorado mountain community, where education, entrepreneurship, and the outdoors converge. Located in the beautiful, high-altitude Gunnison River Valley and surrounded by national forest and mountains on nearly all sides, Gunnison (pop. 7,013, area 4.85 sq mi, elev. 7,703 ft) is due south of Crested Butte and northeast of the incomparably beautiful San Juan Mountains. The county seat and most populous city of Gunnison County, Gunnison is also home to Western Colorado University, an essential stakeholder. The proposed FY 2025 Budget is $50.3 million (Operating, $36.8 million), supporting 109.6 employees.

This career opportunity is available with the announced retirement of the current chief of police, who has served Gunnison for over 43 years. Reporting directly to the city manager, the chief of police oversees a departmental budget of $4.1 million (Personnel, $3.08M), supporting 22.81 FTE, of whom 16 are sworn, including the chief.  The next chief has a strong moral compass and effectively balances liabilities, policies, and safety for all. Summarized, the ideal candidate has character, competence, and heart to meet the community’s needs.

A bachelor’s degree, certification as a Colorado police officer, or the ability to obtain certification (Colorado POST), acceptable background and screening, and at least seven years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience are required. Experience should include senior executive assignments, leadership in community policing, and crime reduction initiatives, as well as experience in an active model of rural, community-led, problem-solving policing. Successful completion of the FBI’s National Academy or other comparable leadership programs is preferred. A deep commitment to transparency with a proven track record of building trust and effective relationships in the community is non-negotiable.

The hiring range for this position is $145,000 to $172,000 DOQE. In addition, Gunnison provides the following benefits: medical, dental, vision, and life ($100,000) insurances, paid 75% for the employee and dependents, with three PPO choices and other optional benefits. Employee assistance program, related services (counseling, financial, legal), and wellness program, including free membership to the Gunnison Community Center (recreation). Gunnison pays 100% of personal liability insurance on/off duty and matches a mandatory 11.2% toward retirement in a 401(a) contribution plan through the Colorado Retirement Association. Additionally, a voluntary 457(b) defined contribution plan is available. This position enjoys a take-home vehicle, sportsman’s association gun club membership, paid vacation (three weeks per year), 12 sick days, and 13 paid holidays. Relocation assistance and possible additional incentives are subject to negotiation.

Filing Deadline: November 24, 2024

Contact: Andrew (Drew) Gorgey at (970) 987-1238 (direct)

Full information: https://columbialtd.com/recruitments

Cover letter and resume only to: apply@columbialtd.com