Brantl named Post Falls police chief
Deputy City Clerk Rhiannon O'Neill swears in Post Falls Police Chief Mark Brantl at Tuesday's city council meeting. Brantl was put forward by Mayor Randy Westlund as his choice for the position about eight months after Greg McLean retired in October.
CAROLYN BOSTICK/Press
POST FALLS — After eight months without a chief of police, Mayor Randy Westlund officially put forward Mark Brantl’s name at the Post Falls City Council meeting Tuesday night.
Earlier in the day, at a Connect4Lunch hosted by the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce, Brantl let the audience know that his nickname had affectionately become “Step Chief” at the police department when he stepped into the interim position earlier this spring.
Prior to the council vote, Brantl said no matter how the vote went, he hoped to keep the department moving forward.
“I’m just excited to step into the role and make sure that all of our people have all the resources they need,” Brantl said.
City Councilor Samantha Steigleder was the sole vote against his appointment, citing issues with the appointment procedure.
“I will be voting no for this, and I want to be clear that this is not a reflection of you, Mr. Brantl, it's a reflection of the process,” Steigleder said.
Steigleder commended him for his selfless conduct serving the city over the years, but said she had to vote according to her beliefs on the matter.
“I consistently believe that the appointments to major leadership positions should include an opportunity for public discussion,” Steigleder said.
Brantl took his oath of office immediately following the vote. He received a standing ovation from city leadership and community members in attendance.
“For the first time, I am Mark Brantl, your chief of police,” Brantl said.
Brantl spent his entire career with the Post Falls Police Department, serving in nearly every capacity before working his way up to the rank of captain.
During his speech, he thanked his family for their support and thanked the mayor and council for placing confidence in him to lead the police department.
“I promise to work every day to ensure that you have the support and resources you need to continue the outstanding work that you do,” Brantl said.
Annual pay for the chief position is $170,000.
Brantl said although the new role will likely bring more challenges, he hopes to meet them head-on and earn the trust the city of Post Falls has placed in him.
“I’m committed to continue the work that has made the department one that our community can be proud of,” Brantl said.