Peterson needs seven votes to keep Minneapolis police job

Minneapolis residents will wait until the next full City Council meeting to learn if Bill Peterson becomes the permanent police chief. The council postponed most of its questioning during a public hearing on November 4, leaving the final decision for a later session where Peterson requires seven votes to secure the position.

The hearing drew nearly 50 community members who addressed Peterson, who serves as interim chief and is Mayor Jacob Frey's nominee. Most speakers expressed support, citing his long tenure and work on domestic violence. However, some residents questioned his past handling of departmental issues. One speaker asked what evidence Peterson could offer that he would confront the department's culture and hold officers accountable.

Support came from within the police community as well. A loved one of fallen officer Jamal Mitchell told the council that every officer she spoke with supported Peterson and his integrity. The testimony highlighted the trust Peterson has built with rank and file officers over his 31 years with the Minneapolis Police Department.

Peterson began his service on September 18, 1995. In an interview after the hearing, he addressed council members who urged the mayor to select an outsider for the role. Peterson stated that his internal status gives him a head start over an external candidate who would need time to learn the city's problems and build relationships.

Only three council members, Michael Rainville, Elizabeth Schaffer, and Linea Palmisano, told local reporters that they fully support the nomination. Several other members said they need more time to consider the decision. A letter sent to Mayor Frey days before the nomination asked him to choose a candidate from outside the department.

The council will take up the nomination again at its next full meeting. Peterson will answer remaining questions from council members before the group votes on whether to make him Minneapolis police chief.