LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville's Chief of Public Safety Amy Hess will leave Metro Government in May, Mayor Greg Fischer announced Friday.
What You Need To Know
- Amy Hess leaving Metro Government in May
- Hess took on the role of Chief of Public Safety in May 2020
- Hess will continue to serve as Fischer's representative on the Louisville Metro's Criminal Justice Commission
- She was once the highest-ranking woman in the FBI
Hess joined Metro in February 2020 as Chief of Public Services, where she oversaw Public Works, Emergency Services, Corrections, Louisville Fire, Fleet and Facilities, and Animal Services. Hess took on the role of Chief of Public Safety after former Police Chief Steve Conrad announced his retirement in May 2020. As Chief of Public Safety, Hess oversaw the Louisville Metro Police Department, Louisville Fire, Emergency Services, and Corrections. Before joining Metro, Hess was executive assistant director of the FBI's Criminal, Cyber, Response, and Services Branch and was the highest-ranking woman in the FBI.
Hess said she joined Metro to be closer to family, and she's leaving now to devote more time to them.
“I’m grateful to have had this opportunity to serve our community and the place I call home,” Hess said. “This past year has given me tremendous insight and a new appreciation for all that local government does, especially during periods of tumultuous change. Now, after 30 years of public service, it is time for me to prioritize my family and find other ways I can contribute.
“I’d like to thank the dedicated employees of Metro Government, particularly in our public safety departments, who have made so many personal sacrifices to help others and keep us safe,” she continued. “It’s been a privilege to serve alongside them."
Going forward, Hess will continue to serve as Fischer's representative on the Louisville Metro's Criminal Justice Commission, a 29-member board responsible for criminal justice and public safety planning, research, and system-wide coordination and collaboration.
“Throughout her tenure with Metro, Amy has proven to be a knowledgeable, skilled and steady hand, and she’s helped guide our public safety team through some tumultuous times,” Fischer said. “We wish her well as she takes a well-earned break, but we are so pleased she will continue in the critical role with our Criminal Justice Commission.”
According to a release from the mayor's office, Fischer and his leadership team will be evaluating reporting structures in the weeks ahead.