Charlotte, NC, August 28, 2025
News Summary
The city of Charlotte is engaging its residents in the selection process for a new Chief of Police following the announced retirement of Chief Johnny Jennings. A 15-question survey has been launched to gather public input on the police department and desired qualities in the new leader. Residents have until September 5 to participate, with concerns about public safety shaping responses. This process reflects Charlotte’s commitment to community involvement in decision-making regarding public safety and police leadership.
Charlotte Launches Community Survey for New Chief of Police Search
The city of Charlotte is actively seeking public input for the selection of its next Chief of Police. Current Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings has announced his retirement, effective at the end of 2025, prompting city officials to engage residents in the search process.
A 15-question survey has been launched, allowing Charlotte residents to share their views on the police department and the qualities they wish to see in the new police chief. The survey aims to identify community priorities and expectations regarding police leadership. Residents will have until September 5 to participate in the survey, which is accessible through the City of Charlotte’s news page.
Many residents expressed that they were previously unaware of the survey but were grateful to learn about it. The goal of gathering community feedback is to guide city officials in making informed decisions about the hiring process for the new chief.
Concerns about public safety rank high among residents. Charlotte native John Maheras noted a perceived increase in crime over the past 46 years, though he still considers the city a safe place. Another resident, Briana Pole, raised specific worries about safety in areas with significant homelessness, particularly in Uptown. In contrast, Tiana Bates commended the city for its initiative to engage residents and actively listen to their concerns.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), recognized as the largest police department between Washington D.C. and Atlanta, reported a 25% decrease in violent crime and an 8% decrease in total crime this year, showcasing the department’s ongoing efforts to ensure safety in the community. Resident feedback is viewed as essential for maintaining and even exceeding these crime reduction achievements.
Additional context surrounds the search for a new police chief, as the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police is expected to vote on a no confidence motion against Chief Jennings amid allegations of unethical conduct. This step signifies the complexities involved in the leadership transition, reinforcing the need for a thoughtful approach in selecting a potential successor that adheres to community values.
The proactive nature of the search for the new police chief reflects Charlotte’s commitment to involving citizens in decision-making processes regarding their safety and community leadership. This engagement is seen as a vital step toward ensuring that the next Chief of Police aligns with the priorities and expectations of the Charlotte community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the community survey?
The community survey is designed to gather input from residents about their views on the police department and the qualities they value in the next Chief of Police.
When does the survey close?
The survey will remain open until September 5.
Why is community feedback important in this process?
Community feedback is crucial for guiding the hiring process and ensuring that the new Chief of Police aligns with the community’s needs and expectations.
What concerns do residents have about safety in Charlotte?
Residents have expressed concerns about safety, particularly in areas with high homelessness rates, while acknowledging that overall they still view Charlotte as a safe city.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Chief of Police | Johnny Jennings, retiring end of 2025 |
| Community Survey | 15 questions, open until September 5 |
| Crime Statistics | 25% decrease in violent crime, 8% decrease in total crime this year |
| Importance of Feedback | Guides the hiring process for new police chief |
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Additional Resources
- WSOC-TV: City of Charlotte Seeking Public Input for Next Police Chief
- QC News: City of Charlotte Launches Survey for New Chief of Police
- Charlotte Observer: Public Input for New Police Chief Search
- Wikipedia: Community Policing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Policing
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
