The Chief of Police shall be the commander and administrative head of the Public Safety Department, and shall also be responsible for the City’s contract for fire protection and emergency medical services with Snohomish County Fire District #4. The Chief shall be responsible to the Mayor and City Council. Eligibility requirements for the position shall generally be established by contract, written job description, and by direction of the Mayor and City Council, and shall be consistent with the criteria specified in RCW 35.21.333. In the absence of the Chief of Police, the command of the Department shall be assumed by the next highest ranking officer of the Department unless otherwise specified by written directive from the Chief of Police. (Ord. 2341, 2017)