For the second time in four years, Menlo Park has tapped from within its own ranks in naming a new police chief.
Bruce Goitia, the department’s acting chief and administration program commander, was named police chief Monday afternoon, May 22, by City Manager David Boesch.
Mr. Goitia has been with the department for 24 years. As a commander, he supervised personnel, training, hiring, media relations, records, communications and administrative support.
He joined the department in 1982 as a reserve officer, and served in several divisions before being promoted to sergeant. He was promoted to commander in 2002.
“Bruce is a top-notch chief, and there’s no doubt he’ll lead us effectively,” said Mr. Boesch.
Chief Goitia was chosen from a field of 40 candidates, 20 of whom were from outside California, said Mr. Boesch. He added that the decision was particularly tough because the other finalist is also a member of the Menlo Park force — Commander Terri Molakides.
Chris Boyd, the department chief from 2002 to 2005, was also hired from within the department. His tenure was marked by a high number of resignations of officers, some longtime veterans.
Chief Goitia will undergo a six-month review process, and will receive a pay raise “assuming all goes well,” said Mr. Boesch. He said Chief Goitia now earns about $145,000 a year, a figure that will increase to about $157,000 a year after his probationary period.
The new chief’s top priority will be to fill the commander position left vacant due to his promotion to chief, said Mr. Boesch.
Chief Goitia could not be reached for comment.
