Title
Special Recognition - Swearing-In of Police Chief Shelby Parker
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Hold a swearing-in ceremony of Shelby Parker as Chief of Police for the Olympia Police Department.
Report
Issue:
Whether to hold a swearing-in ceremony of Shelby Parker as Chief of Police for the Olympia Police Department.
Staff Contact:
Jay Burney, City Manager, 360.753.8740
Presenter(s):
Jay Burney, City Manager
Shelby Parker, Olympia Police Chief
Background and Analysis:
On March 12, 2026, City Manager Jay Burney announced the appointment of Shelby Parker as Chief of Police for the Olympia Police Department. Chief Parker has served as Interim Chief since June 2025 and previously as Deputy Chief.
Chief Parker has more than 20 years of service with the Olympia Police Department. Her appointment reflects her experience and commitment to a balanced approach to public safety, focusing on both community well-being and effective policing, with an emphasis on collaboration, responsiveness, and building trust.
The swearing-in ceremony provides an opportunity for the City Council, staff, and community members to formally recognize Chief Parker's appointment.
During her tenure, Chief Parker has led labor negotiations, updated policies and procedures to reflect current policing practices, increased transparency through data sharing, supported implementation of public safety reimagining recommendations, and strengthened recruitment, hiring, and training efforts.
Chief Parker is known for her focus on employee development, well-being, and organizational readiness. She has also built partnerships within the community through ongoing engagement and collaboration.
Her leadership emphasizes equity, accountability, and shared responsibility for public safety. As Chief, she will continue to support department staff while advancing the City's public safety goals.
Chief Parker holds a Bachelor...
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