Travis Stefonowicz named Fargo’s 39th Chief of Police

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Fargo City Commission gives unanimous approval to select Interim Chief Travis Stefonowicz as Fargo’s 39th Chief of Police.

He was the sole finalist for the position after two other out of state candidates dropped out of being considered and was fully endorsed by City Manager Michael Redlinger.

The only conversation about the appointment came from Commissioner Dave Piepkorn who asked about the public’s input and why the process was so speedy.

Redlinger responded that the process to hire a new chief was sped-up at the request of a majority of the commission.

An official swearing-in ceremony for Stefonowicz is being planned for May 27.

“Chief I was surprised at your ability to really explain yourself during the public discussion we had with you. I think for any of those who watched it you saw somebody who put out there what he’s planning on doing, his heart is in it as well as not having all the solutions but looking for them and listening to people and working with teams to try to find those answers,” said Mayor Tim Mahoney.

The new police chief plans to hold community forums in the coming months to meet people and hear their concerns as he shapes the department.

He replaces Dave Zibolski who retired in March.