A message from Chief Cregan about the Chief's Community Advisory Team accepting applications for new members through March 14th

Strengthening the police department’s relationship with the community is an ongoing priority for me, as Chief of Police. In continuation of these efforts, I am looking to expand the Chief’s Community Advisory Team (C-CAT) with new members. I am looking for candidates to serve and lend their insight. I value input and am looking for members of the community willing to provide constructive feedback and open to learning about the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD). 

I intend to keep C-CAT a diverse group of people who represent stakeholders in the community. Members of this team should be residents, be employed in, or have a “sphere of influence” within the City of Santa Rosa. 

• Selected members will undergo a simple background check by SRPD staff as they may be coming to the police department. 

• Members will serve a 1 to 2-year term on the team. 

• Members should be able to attend meetings on a monthly basis. Meetings are currently held at 4:00 pm on Wednesdays and may occur more frequently based on the needs of the community. 

• Members should be open to new ideas and be willing to work with others. 

• Members should be able to provide constructive feedback in a productive manner. 

The C-CAT is designed to be a bridge between the community and SRPD. It facilitates and enhances communication and relationships between SRPD and the community. The team assists in informing the Police Chief of the broader community’s concerns and views regarding public safety, thus guiding the focus of law enforcement services. 

The Chief’s Community Advisory Team will review and make recommendations to the Chief of Police on matters pertinent to the Police Department. These areas include community issues, program review, and community outreach assistance. 

• The C-CAT and the Chief of Police will discuss potential resolutions to police-related community issues and assist in community outreach efforts. 

• The C-CAT will provide feedback regarding SRPD programs and priority recommendations. 

• The C-CAT relies on the authority of the Chief of Police and performs an advisory role only. 

• Recommendations made by the C-CAT are not binding. The Chief of Police answers to the City Manager. The City Manager and the Chief of Police are held accountable by the City Council and the community in general for the operation of the Police Department. 

• Members of the C-CAT are expected to complete the Santa Rosa Police Department’s Community Policing Experience to gain a better understanding of SRPD’s Mission, Vision, Values, and operations. 

• Meetings will be held on a quarterly basis, at a time and place to be determined. 

• The ability to speak English is not a requirement for C-CAT members. If you are monolingual in a language other than English, interpretation services will be made available for your participation on the C-CAT. 

Applications will be accepted through March 14, 2025. Decisions will be made on March 21, 2025, and the first meeting following the application period will be held on April 16, 2025. 

Thank you for your help in creating better engagement between my department and the community. If you are interested in learning more or applying for C-CAT, please visit our website here. 

With gratitude, 

John Cregan 

Chief of Police, Santa Rosa Police Department