MADISON, Wis. – The City of Madison Police and Fire Commission is now seeking applicants to be the city’s next police chief.
Shon Barnes, the previous chief of police, stepped down in February after four years in Madison to become Seattle’s new police chief. Barnes had been the Madison Police chief since 2021, working as a police officer in various locations for more than 24 years.
Assistant Police Chief John Patterson is serving as the interim police chief until a replacement is found. Patterson has been with the department since 1998.
“I looked forward and am humbled by this next chapter in my service,” Patterson said.
The deadline to apply is April 27. The position pays between $151,800 to $204,900 a year, according to the job posting. The board said it is open to internal and external candidates.
The Board of Police and Fire Commissioners said it plans to decide on a candidate by Sept. 2025. During the process, the board will ask for input from the community either at meetings on the second Monday of each month or via email at pfc@cityofmadison.com.
