Thirty-nine people applied to be Chattanooga's next police chief, including four from the Chattanooga area.
Applications to replace former Chief David Roddy came from candidates across the country, with 18 states represented in addition to Tennessee, according to Mayor Tim Kelly's office.
(READ MORE: Applications closed Monday on the search for the next Chattanooga police chief)
"Given the number of states represented in this applicant pool, we can safely say Chattanooga, (Chattanooga Police Department) and city government hold broad appeal for talented public-safety professionals throughout the country," Mary Beth Ikard, the mayor's director of communications, said in an email. "We're also glad to see local and Tennessee applicants have submitted, as we made sure to emphasize the city is equally open to considering internal candidates."
The city's nationwide search began last month after a series of public comment sessions seeking input on the qualities and skillset needed for the job. The job listing calls for applicants who are effective leaders with the ability to inspire confidence and who have a commitment to community accountability.
"Mayor Kelly looks forward to an interview process that results in the city's hiring the best police chief for Chattanooga," Ikard wrote, "someone who's both respected and respectful, who values transparency and integrity, who's committed to community-oriented policing that keeps our neighborhoods safe and who reflects Chattanoogans' stated desires for what they hope to see in their next chief during the public-engagement process for this phase of the search."
Review of the applications will begin in mid-December and will last until the end of January. Interviews will start at the end of January and will last until early February. The final selection will be made by the end of February.
(READ MORE: Sohn: Police Chief David Roddy leaves big shoes to fill)
Former Chattanooga Police Chief David Roddy retired after 26 years on the force at the end of July. Deputy Chief Eric Tucker is serving as interim chief.
Contact La Shawn Pagán at lpagan@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6476. Follow her on Twitter @LaShawnPagan.