On June 25, the Northfield community was invited to meet the two finalists for Northfield police chief, Mikael Garland and Jeffrey Schroepfer. The event began at 6 p.m. at the Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., with the finalists mingling with the public.
Promptly at 6:30 p.m., retiring Northfield Police Chief Mark Elliott introduced the candidates, who then took turns answering a standard set of questions prepared in advance. At 7 p.m., community members were able again to meet with the candidates. They were asked to provide feedback on comment cards offered by City staff.
Garland is currently a lieutenant with the St. Louis Park Police Department and has served for more than 25 years in law enforcement. Schroepfer is currently a district commander with the Minnesota State Patrol and has served for more than 26 years in law enforcement.
“The city is grateful for the consideration of all candidates who have participated in this recruitment and selection process,” said Ben Martig, city administrator. “We invite the community to learn more about our finalists and provide feedback for this important hire.”
The city of Northfield accepted applications after receiving notice of Police Chief Mark Elliott’s intent to retire on Sept. 27, 2024. Nine applicants applied for the position. Eight applicants participated in telephone interviews. Four applicants were interviewed at City Hall by four interview panels representing the community, administration and elected officials, city management staff and members of the Police Department.
After the meet and greet, staff leadership will work to determine the best option, and City Administrator Martig will make a conditional offer of employment to the selected candidate. Before making the offer, Martig will need to first recommend appointment of the new police chief to the City Council for its consideration at a meeting later this summer.
The selected candidate must pass a background check, reference checks, and psychological and physical examinations.
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