From today's Spokesman-Review: "But questions still remain. Councilman Al French took issue with the mayor's selection, saying Kirkpatrick appears to be more interested in building her career than in making Spokane her home. 'It's just a matter of time until there's a better job,' he said, adding he preferred Linda Pierce of the Seattle Police Department, another finalist, because she indicated she wanted to make Spokane her home."

Effective law enforcement chief executives are in great demand. Often after about three years of demonstrated leadership successes, the exceptional ones start receiving offers from headhunters representing cities desperate for ethical, innovative, skilled leadership. The best chiefs are sought because they've been successful, not because they've failed. They leave because they're competent and because other cities offer them more opportunities for professional advancement.

French seems to be seeking a chief who will “retire in place.” That’s what Spokane had, not what Spokane needs.

Bill McCrory/Whitecaps

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