Mayor Bill Haslam announced today an advisory committee that will assist him in selecting the next Chief of Police for the city of Knoxville.

 "I appreciate the willingness of these citizens to serve their community by advising me on this important decision," Mayor Haslam said. "I am confident that this process will yield the best person for leading the Knoxville Police Department."

In addition, the Mayor will host three community meetings between June 21 and July 7 to gather input from the general public. Specific times, dates and places will be announced through the media and on the city's web site. The advisory committee is charged with advising the Mayor on qualifications the next Police Chief should have, reviewing applications and nominations and providing counsel on the candidates' strengths and weaknesses.

The position will be advertised in major law enforcement publications and web sites beginning June 8. Resumes and nominations may be sent to the Office of the Mayor. Deadline for applications is July 8. The goal is to select the next Police Chief by Aug. 1, although Mayor Haslam said he would move that date if more time is necessary to retain the best candidate. Police Chief Phil Keith has announced his retirement effective Aug. 31.

 Knoxville Law Director Morris Kizer will serve as the committee's chairman. Committee members are: Sue Atchley, community volunteer; Rudy Bradley, retired Knoxville deputy chief of police; Jeff Davis, retired Knoxville police captain; Carl McCarter, Fraternal Order of Police; Pat Medley, community volunteer and former Knox County commissioner; Phyllis Nichols, president, Knoxville Area Urban League; Randy Nichols, Knox County district attorney general; and Beth Schwartz, rabbi, Temple Beth El.