Fargo City Commissioner to push for Interim Police Chief to be appointed as Chief on Monday

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — An effort is underway to make Interim Fargo Police Chief Travis Stefonowicz, the police chief.

A letter sent to city leaders by officers, investigators, detectives and civilian staff with Fargo Police Department call Stefonowicz the right leader to serve as the next Chief of Police.

They say with 20 years of experience, he brings significant institutional knowledge and deep understanding of the department’s mission, operations and challenges.

Commissioner Michelle Turnberg has added the topic to Monday’s meeting and she will recommend Stefonowicz by appointed chief.

She says after being restricted access to the department for nearly two years, she has engaged in extensive dialogue with department staff and the interim chief.

Turnberg says under the current timeline, his ability to lead is hindered.

She says he is supposed to compose next year’s budget while being unable to enact changes the department requires.

Stefonowicz was named interim chief at the end of March when Chief Dave Zibolski retired.

Turnberg, Denise Kolpack and Dave Piekporn all sit on the city commission and all three are running for mayor in June.