Public Safety Director (Future Police Chief)

City of Lucas•Lucas, TX

31d

About The Position

Provides executive-level leadership in planning, developing, and preparing for the establishment of the Lucas Police Department. Working under the direction of the City Manager, the Director of Public Safety will create the organizational structure, policies, procedures, and operational standards necessary to build a professional law enforcement agency. This position oversees administrative activities related to department development, including budgeting, staffing projections, training standards, and compliance with federal, state, and local requirements, while promoting accountability, transparency, and community trust. The Director also serves as the City’s key public safety representative, fostering strong community relationships, collaborating with regional partners, and ensuring that Lucas is positioned to deliver high-quality, responsive public safety services.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, practices, procedures, and equipment.
Considerable knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations, including Texas Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and City ordinances.
Extensive knowledge of police administration, budgeting, organizational development, and policy creation.
Ability to analyze complex issues, apply sound judgment, and make effective decisions under pressure.
Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate policies, procedures, and programs for efficiency and compliance.
Strong skills in personnel management, including recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of staff.
Ability to safeguard confidential information and exercise discretion in handling sensitive matters.
Demonstrated commitment to the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and professional conduct.
Ability to build and maintain a departmental culture based on integrity, accountability, transparency, and community trust.
Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, including public speaking and media relations.
Ability to establish and promote cooperative working relationships with City leadership, employees, community members, and regional partners.
Ability to navigate high-profile, sensitive, or politically charged issues with discretion and professionalism.
Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least five (5) years in a command or senior management position.
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
Must possess a valid Texas Class “C” driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Must possess a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Advanced Peace Officer certification

Nice To Haves

Master Peace Officer certification preferred.
Completion of advanced law enforcement leadership training such as the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT), FBI National Academy, or equivalent preferred.
Graduate of recognized executive-level law enforcement leadership or command staff programs is highly desirable.
Completion of National Incident Management System (NIMS) training courses as outlined by FEMA and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (required within 12 months of appointment if not already completed).

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, development, and creation of the future Lucas Police Department, including organizational structure, staffing models, policies, and procedures.
Provide executive-level leadership in policy development, strategic planning, and organizational design for public safety services.
Direct the preparation and administration of budget proposals, capital planning, and resource needs for the future department.
Develop and monitor internal controls, reporting systems, and performance measures to support department formation and future operational readiness.
Lead recruitment and selection processes for initial police personnel as authorized; ensure alignment with TCOLE requirements and accreditation standards.
Establish training standards, professional development frameworks, and performance management expectations for future department personnel.
Ensure all planning, policies, and proposed operations comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as City ordinances and administrative policies.
Serve as a trusted advisor to the City Manager and City Council on public safety and law enforcement planning matters.
Represent public safety interests to the community, fostering trust, transparency, and engagement during the department-development phase.
Develop the foundation for a community policing philosophy and departmental culture emphasizing accountability, transparency, and collaboration.
Coordinate with regional law enforcement, emergency management, and community partners to support public safety planning and service delivery.
Participate in emergency management planning and support emergency response coordination as needed from a command or administrative perspective.
Attend City Council meetings, civic events, and professional conferences as required.
Support mutual aid planning and regional public safety initiatives.
Oversee procurement processes related to facilities, vehicles, equipment, technology, and other resources needed for future department operations.
Provide public information, media relations, and community outreach support related to public safety.
Establish and promote cooperative working relationships with City leadership, employees, community members, and regional partners.
Perform other related duties as assigned.