2025 Board of Directors Nominations

Brian Podany, Police Chief/Safety Services Director

CITY: Blaine
COUNTY: Anoka
POSITION RUNNING FOR: 2nd Vice President

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

During my time as Chief, I have learned how imperative the networks we have with other Administrators is. I have been fortunate to serve in multiple roles within the MCPA and am excited about the opportunity to continue to do so. Our organization presents a strong voice both within our profession and beyond our walls, whether it is at the legislature, or in our Communities. The MCPA deserves people who are dedicated and passionate about our work and will continually drive positive progress in our profession, advocating for what is right in public safety. I am continually blown away at the caliber of law enforcement I have gotten to work with and become friends and partners with across our State and am humbled to even be part of this organization.

Although I have been a Chief for seven years, I do have extensive experience in law enforcement in various roles, including over twenty years of time with the Anoka County Sheriff's Office. In my current role, in addition to being the Police Chief for Blaine, I am also the Safety Services Director, overseeing the relationship and integrated operations of our non-profit SBM Fire Department, allowing me to uniquely understand emergency service integration with other public safety partners as well.

I have been involved with many organizations across the state both as a member and as a leader and this unique combination of experiences helps me to not only see different perspectives but try and find middle ground so we can all be successful. A number of my strengths include effective media relations, elected official relations, and law enforcement service amalgamation/consolidation. Additionally, I always strive to be positive, solutions focused, and approachable, mentoring various other new Chief's along the way. I have been fortunate to develop excellent peer relationships amongst other law enforcement leaders, which is essential to success in public safety. Living and working in Blaine also provides me a unique opportunity to be geographically close to the MCPA as well as our Capital city so I can be available to actively support the Association, yet also connect with and travel around the State in furtherance of our purpose.

After extensive consideration, I am committed to the MCPA and fortunate to have this opportunity in asking for your support.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

We have been fortunate to have excellent programming and services available through and near the Association. Whether it is our legislative voice, numerous excellent training opportunities, accreditation, the MN Chief's Foundation, or any of the other multitude of successful endeavors we have, it is important to continue to maintain and enhance those where it is possible.

I have gotten involved and feel it is important to maintain the financial standing of the Association, and help welcome and mentor new Chief's into the MCPA. I want to be a part of strengthening the image and voice of our Association so we can most effectively do our jobs. Whether we are policing a small community or a large community, we all have challenges (and successes) that we can learn from and support each other on. Nobody is more important than anyone else in our Association and it is through the involvement of all members that we can strive to be better and best represent public safety in Minnesota. I do have a desire to ensure the Association is well known not only in law enforcement circles, but outside of law enforcement. This helps build support for policing and expands the support available for us, whether it is from the Foundation, or training support, or legislative allocations. If we don't advocate for how best to run our organizations and profession, outside entities will do that to us. This leaves us to navigate difficult laws, challenging finances, and adverse public policy. We need to be assertive in fighting for public safety as that is what we are appointed to do.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Throughout my career, I have been involved with many entities relating to public safety. While I have maintained membership in many things, I think it is even more important to be active in those associations we are a part of. For me, this list has included:

• MN Tactical Officer's Association (MTOA)

• Ass'n of Training Officers of Minnesota (ATOM)

• MN Sex Crimes Investigator's Association (MNSCIA) – former Board Member

• State of MN Medical Forensic Workgroup and Sexual Assault Exam Kit Testing Workgroup

• Anoka County Supervisor's Association – former President

• Anoka County Joint Law Enforcement Council – current Budget Committee Chair and Executive Committee Member

• Anoka County Chief's Association – past Vice President and past President

• Anoka Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crimes Task Force – former Board Chair

• FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force

• State of Minnesota DWI Task Force

• MPPOA

• IACP

• North Command Mobile Field Force – Executive CLEO

• MN Chief's of Police Association (past and current roles):

  • Sergeant at Arms

  • Board Member

  • ETI Committee

  • Legislative Committee

    • Additional experience testifying before MN House Transportation and Policy Committee, as well as advocating with the MN State AG's Office for distracted driving law changes

  • Investment and Finance Committee

  • Police Chief Hiring Committee

  • Deadly Force Encounters Workgroup

  • Predatory Offender Workgroup

  • Instructor/Presenter at CLEO & Command

  • Regularly fill in for Region Reps Meeting with MCPA/MSA

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

Education:

• Associate’s in Law Enforcement from Minneapolis Community & Technical College

• Bachelor Degree in Police Science from St. Mary’s University – Capstone focus: Effective Media Relations for Law Enforcement

• Master’s Degree in Public Safety Administration from St. Mary’s University – Capstone focus: Law Enforcement Consolidation/Amalgamation

• Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command #258

• Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association CLEO & Command Academy Graduate

Employment/Experience – Current and Past:

• Blaine Police Department – Safety Services Director / Chief of Police

• Anoka County Sheriff’s Office – Commander, Captain, Lieutenant, Major Crimes Detective, Deputy, Special Deputy, Administrative Liaison / Law Enforcement Service Representative for ACSO to Andover, Oak Grove, and Ham Lake

• Anoka County Parks Department – Park Ranger

• Anoka Police Department / Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center – Security Guard

• Peace Lutheran Church – Council Member at Large (Elected)

• Peace Lutheran Church – Endowment Board

• Active youth coach for Blaine Soccer Club, Blaine Youth Football, and Blaine Backcourt Club Basketball

• Bike Patroller / President of MN Chapter, National Mountain Bike Patrol

• Ski Patroller with National Ski Patrol at Wild Mountain

• Ski Patroller with Backcountry Trail Patrol – various locations

Brady Juell, Police Chief

CITY: Savage
COUNTY: Scott
POSITION RUNNING FOR: 3rd Vice President

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I currently serve on the MCPA Board of Directors, a role that has been incredibly fulfilling and has provided me with numerous valuable opportunities over the past two years. Now, I am eager to take the next step in leadership as 3rd Vice President.

Law enforcement is my passion, and I am committed to advocating for officers’ rights while working to pass laws that help curb crime and keep criminals off the streets. Ensuring the safety of our communities remains my top priority, and I believe this position will allow me to further that mission in a meaningful way.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

If elected, I will continue to support the MCPA and its mission. I will remain Chair of the Awards Committee, a role that has been deeply rewarding in recognizing the outstanding men and women in our profession. I will also continue serving as Commissioner of the MNLEAP Commission, helping to strengthen and expand this vital program.

Additionally, I am committed to supporting the Legislative Committee’s efforts to pass stronger laws that empower law enforcement rather than hinder it. Recruitment and retention remain critical challenges, and I will work to champion initiatives that attract and retain quality officers.

I am passionate about this profession and dedicated to advancing MCPA’s goals. It would be an honor to serve as 3rd Vice President.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

• Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association (MCPA) Member – since 2015

  • Regional Representative, 2020–2023

  • Board of Directors, Director Position, 2023–Present

  • Awards Committee Chair, 2023–Present

  • MN Law Enforcement Accreditation Program Commissioner, 2024–Present

• MN Security Consortium – Board of Directors, 2019–Present

• Southern Valley Alliance – Board Member, 2019–Present

  • President of the Board, 2022–Present

• Scott/Carver CLEO's Association – Member, 2019–Present

  • President, 2021 & 2022

• Scott County Mental Health Local Advisory Committee – Member, 2024–Present

• Scott County Justice Steering Committee – Member, 2022–Present

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

• 30 years of law enforcement experience at five different departments and sheriff’s office

• 14 years of supervisory experience

• 6 years of CLEO experience

• 19 years as a Use of Force / Firearms Instructor

• Bachelor’s Degree – Double Major in Law Enforcement & Minority Ethnic Studies, Minnesota State University, Mankato

• Master of Arts in Public Safety Administration and Law Enforcement Leadership – University of St. Thomas

• FBI/LEEDA Trilogy Leadership Series

• BCA Supervisory Courses

• Adjunct Professor, Normandale Community College (2022)

• Level Two Teaching License – State of Minnesota

Tanya Schwartz, Police Chief

CITY: Burnsville
COUNTY: Dakota
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Secretary

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I have enjoyed my time with MCPA as Board Secretary over the past several years and wish to continue my service in that capacity.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

Continue to provide high level of support for the MCPA Board and law enforcement agencies across the state. Be a collaborative partner and share relevant experiences specific to staff wellness and line of duty deaths to help other LE agencies.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Current MCPA Board Secretary and Past President of the Dakota County Chiefs of Police Association.

My primary roles with the MCPA and Dakota County Chiefs Association have focused on serving as part of innovative teams that:

• Collaborate to raise the voice of police executives in Minnesota

• Recognize the exceptional work of the women and men in blue

• Build strong community partnerships

• Provide high-level educational and training opportunities that elevate the law enforcement profession

Currently serve on the MCPA Awards Committee.

Previously served on several committees with the Dakota County Chiefs Association, including:

• ERPO Sub-Committee Work Group

• Early Domestic Violence Intervention Programming

• Dakota County ECU Board

• Dakota County DTF Board

• Dakota County Domestic Violence Coordinated Response Team (current)

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology/Sociology – Augsburg University

• Law Enforcement Certificate – Metro State University

• Master’s Degree in Public Safety Administration – St. Mary’s University of Minnesota

• FBI National Academy Graduate – Session 264

• Nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience with the City of Burnsville, including 6 years as CLEO

  • Extensive training and education through IACP, MCPA ETI, CLEO & Command, Women in Command, LEEDS, LPO, and numerous leadership certificates and courses

• Effectively led through several officer-involved shooting incidents, the COVID-19 pandemic, and wide-ranging legislative changes/mandates following the George Floyd incident

• Currently leading through the tragic line-of-duty deaths of two law enforcement officers and a firefighter/paramedic

• Testified on HF 124 to advocate for changes to gift and donation acceptance policies following line-of-duty death incidents

• Serving on the project team for a $98 million facilities project for Burnsville PD and City Hall, prioritizing wellness spaces, training, and professional development

• Championed the launch of a Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) in 2021 to address mental health needs in the Burnsville community

• Added CIRT K9 “Duke” to the BHU in 2024 to support mental health-related calls for service

• Launched a Wellness Therapy K9 program in 2023 to support internal staff with mental health and wellness challenges

• Implemented an embedded Wellness Coordinator in 2022 to enhance peer support and overall staff wellness

• MCPA Board Member / Secretary

• Member, Dakota County Chiefs Association

• Member, Rotary International

• Collaborative partner focused on advancing teams and organizational growth

Brian Mueller, Police Chief

CITY: Stillwater
COUNTY: Washington
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Seargeant-At-Arms

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I currently serve as the Sergeant at Arms for the Minnesota Chiefs of Police and have been for the last 3 years I am excited to continue in this role, working for all Chiefs of Police in the State of Minnesota. I am proud to be in this profession and I want to be part of the innovation that comes with the changing times and expectations. I feel now more than ever; law enforcement needs a strong collective voice. I am running to continue as MCPA Sergeant at Arms to continue the great work that has already been done by this association.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

My priorities with the Association have not changed during my time in this role. First, I believe we should collectively serve as support of, and a voice for, all chiefs in the state. I have worked for small and large agencies and I realize some of the differences in resources and access. I intend to be that voice for all agencies in the state, especially the smaller agencies. Regular communication is the key to success and I will work to ensure that. Secondly, I know that our profession is facing some challenges in the way of legislative action. I want to continue the involvement that MCPA has had on the front end. We can have great influence at the Capital, helping stop harmful legislation and being a partner in positive changes. Lastly, I am a huge proponent of the training provided by MCPA. The work that MCPA does to educate our profession and develop our leaders is needed now more than ever and I hope to continue that, including being a proponent of our newly created accreditation program, MNLEAP.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

27 years law enforcement experience serving three different agencies as Officer/Deputy, Narcotics Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Drug Task Force Commander, SWAT Operator/TL/Commander, Investigative and Patrol Commander, Chief Deputy and Stillwater Police Chief. I received my B.A. in Criminal Justice, minor in Business Administration and a M.A. in Police Leadership and Education from the University of St. Thomas. 2024 graduate of the Senior Management Institute of Police (SMIP), hosted by the Police Executive research Forum (PERF).

• Rotary International

• Collaborative partner focused on advancing teams and organizational growth

Michael Mastin, Police Chief

CITY: Bemidji 
COUNTY: Beltrami 
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

My dedication and commitment to the mission of the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association began in 2011 when I was first promoted to Chief of Police. Like many of us who have accepted the responsibilities of the position, I immediately encountered difficult situations that challenged my ability. The MCPA proved to be a tremendous asset by providing resources and the collective knowledge of the associations’ members. With their assistance, I was able to provide the best solutions that fit our department and community. As a member of the MN Chiefs Association board of directors over the last twelve years I have taken great pride in being the voice for out state police departments. As a board member, I hope to continue this advocacy while providing assistance to all chiefs of police.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

If elected to the Board of Directors I would seek to promote the mission of the Minnesota Chief of Police Association of bringing the highest quality of police services and leadership to the people of Minnesota. I would accomplish this by fostering information sharing and collaboration among law enforcement agencies across Minnesota. In this time of increased scrutiny, it is imperative that MN law enforcement leaders establish a unified position on sensitive or heavily debated issues. By working together we can develop solutions that work for everyone, not just special interest groups. Additionally, I would encourage other chiefs to become involved in the MCPA as our collective strength as an association is based in the quality, experience and participation of its membership.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

I have been with the Bemidji Police Department for 25 years. I have held every position in the department including; patrol officer, SWAT operator, investigator, sergeant, multijurisdictional SWAT commander, police captain and have served as the Chief of Police since 2011. My educational background includes: an A.A. in law enforcement and an A.A. in Forestry from Vermilion Community College, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Bemidji State University and a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice Leadership from Concordia University – St. Paul.

Aside from serving on the MN Chiefs Board of Directors since 2013, I am also an active board member for the Family Advocacy Center of Northern Minnesota and Laporte area Take a Kid Fishing. I serve as board chair for the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force and Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force. Between 2011 and 2014 I served as a board member for the Boys and Girls Club of Bemidji and the Bemidji Area Race Relations Board. In addition, I have taken great pride in helping to educate the next generation of law enforcement professional as an adjunct professor for Bemidji State University.

Tim Hoyt, Police Chief

CITY: New Hope
COUNTY: Hennepin
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I feel as if we are at a critical point in law enforcement when it comes to the relationships between many of our members and the communities in which they serve. I have found over the past year that many members of our communities look to associations like the MCPA to be the leading voice on many critical issues occurring around the state. I believe I can contribute to many conversations and meetings on these critical issues, as I have contributed over the past several years on boards and associations in Hennepin County.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

If elected, I would make it my priority to promote professionalism in all Minnesota law enforcement agencies through the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association. Law Enforcement today has evolved into a well-respected profession based on the intricacies of our work and should never be looked at as just a trade as far as careers. I would highlight this priority through legislation, education and communication at any avenue I could to represent the association. I would be dedicated to supporting our members by strengthening the bond between all of our communities and our departments through our Assocation.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

• Associate of Science Degree – Rochester Community College

• Bachelor of Arts Degree – St. Cloud State University

• Master of Arts Degree – Concordia University

• 29 years of law enforcement experience

• LOGIS Board of Directors

• PUPS Board of Directors

• Hennepin County Chiefs of Police Association (Past President, President, Vice President)

Jason Ohotto, Park Police Chief

CITY: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

After 12 years serving as a CLEO, I would bring experience to the Board during a time of consequence. Quickly changing laws, rules, and public expectations require careful consideration for the Association. I would like to help the Association with these evolving issues and challenges.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

The top priority for the Association should be rebuilding the Minnesota policing profession to inspire a robust and competent police officer candidate pool. All departments are feeling the pinch of a currently deficient candidate pool. We need more and better candidates. This work will require creative approaches to licensing. Equally important is sparking the interest and desire to pursue policing as a profession in young people.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

• Bachelor of Science Degree (Law Enforcement Major) – Metropolitan State University

• Master’s in Public and Non-Profit Administration (Law Enforcement Concentration) – Metropolitan State University

• Human Resources Generalist Certificate – University of Minnesota, College of Continuing Education

• FBI National Academy – Session 266

• Minnesota Peace Officer since 1998 (Entire career served with the Minneapolis Park Police Department, with experience in every rank and assignment)

Neil Bauer, Public Safety Director/Police Chief

CITY: Wyoming
COUNTY: Chisago
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

As a police chief, for the City of Wyoming (MN), I am seeking a position on the board of directors for the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of our profession during a pivotal time. I am committed to fostering leadership, collaboration, and innovation to support law enforcement agencies across Minnesota. I recognize the critical importance of maintaining an apolitical stance in today’s often polarized and challenging environment, and I believe the MCPA plays a vital role in setting that standard. By prioritizing community trust and the promotion of ethical, professional policing practices, I hope to help lead our profession forward while ensuring that decisions are grounded in fairness, integrity, and the collective well-being of the communities we serve. I am eager to bring my experience and dedication to the board to help shape the future of policing in Minnesota with balance, transparency, and resilience.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

1. Ensure that the MCPA remains focused on professional policing and public service without being influenced by partisan politics.
2. Support continuous training and leadership development for chiefs and command staff.
3. Addressing emerging trends with recruitment challenges that are unique to Minnesota, while trying to reduce the reliance on predatory hiring among departments.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

Neil Bauer serves as the Public Safety Director and Police Chief for the City of Wyoming, Minnesota, where he oversees the operations and strategic direction of the police and fire department. With 25 years of experience in law enforcement, Bauer began his career in 1999 as a Community Service Officer in Woodbury (MN), before becoming a Police Officer in 2000. He was promoted to sergeant in 2007 and has demonstrated a commitment to public safety and community engagement throughout his career. In 2021, Bauer transitioned to the Public Safety Director/Police Chief role for the City of Wyoming.

In addition to his leadership role in Wyoming, Bauer contributes to law enforcement training as an instructor for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). His involvement with the BCA underscores his dedication to advancing policing practices and sharing his expertise with fellow law enforcement professionals.

 He holds a Doctorate in Organization Development and Change from the University of St. Thomas as well as a Master of Arts in Police Leadership. Neil is the Chair-Elect for Lakes Center for Youth and Families, a non-profit organization that provides youth counseling, intervention and prevention services to the Forest Lake, Chisago County and Anoka County communities.