C-Notes: October 10, 2025
Executive Director Report
This week, I want to highlight an important new resource that will soon be available to our members. The MCPA will soon launch a Peer Support Program designed to provide confidential, empathetic, and practical support to chief law enforcement officers and command staff across the state. The program connects experienced peers who understand the demands, isolation, and stress that come with leadership in modern policing.
The Peer Support Program was developed in collaboration with the Cities of Bloomington and Eagan, following the success of our first CLEO Peer Support Training, which was supported by the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Foundation. The response to that training confirmed that police leaders benefit from having access to trusted colleagues who can listen, relate, and offer perspective.
Through this program, chiefs and command staff will be able to connect with trained peers who are committed to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism. Each peer supporter will receive specialized training in communication, stress management, and crisis response, helping ensure that every interaction provides meaningful support and appropriate guidance.
Our next Peer Support Training is scheduled for February 2026, and more details will be shared as we prepare to launch the program. This initiative represents another important step in supporting the wellness and resilience of Minnesota’s law enforcement leadership community.
Thank you,
Jeff Potts
Executive Director
City of Indianola, Iowa Hiring Police Chief
The City of Indianola, Iowa (population 16,000) is seeking an experienced and adaptable law enforcement professional to serve as its next Chief of Police.
The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking leader with a strong commitment to community-oriented policing and a proven record of implementing modern policing strategies. The City values open-minded, collaborative leadership and respect for diverse viewpoints.
The salary range for this position is $128,953 – $174,227, depending on experience and qualifications. The City offers an excellent benefits package, and all applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with a resume, cover letter, and contact information for five professional references by October 27, 2025.
Confidential inquiries may be directed to Jon Fehlman and Marc Hornstein, MGT Senior Consultants, at 847-380-3240 ext. 142 or 178.
The City of Indianola is an equal opportunity employer. A detailed recruitment brochure will be available soon.
Master's Degree Survey
The MCPA is exploring the development of an intensive leadership and management program designed to prepare experienced law enforcement professionals for senior command roles. The program would be similar to Northwestern’s Police Staff & Command School or the FBI Academy.
We are also exploring a partnership with a university, which could allow participants to transfer program credits toward earning a Master’s degree.
Please take a few minutes to complete this survey and help guide our research.
Fall Leadership Summit
We’re only weeks away from the MCPA Fall Leadership Summit at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd. From November 18–20, Chiefs and Command Staff from across Minnesota will come together for two and a half days of professional development, connection, and leadership growth.
This year’s agenda features sessions on artificial intelligence in investigations, leadership wellness, legislative priorities, POST Board updates, and the latest report on Minnesota officers injured in the line of duty. View the schedule online.
The cost to attend is $280 per person, which includes all training sessions, materials, and group meals.
Reserve your room at the special MCPA group rate before October 21 using this lodging link. After that date, reservations must be made directly with Cragun’s at their regular rate.
Leadership Academy – May 2026
The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association (MCPA) will host its Leadership Academy May 18–21, 2026, at Camp Ripley in Little Falls. This 3.5-day program is designed for first-line supervisors and middle managers preparing to step into leadership roles. Key topics, including complaint sorting and discipline, performance appraisals, general leadership principles, and media relations musts for every police department.
Registration is open until May 11, 2026.
Chief New Retirement Celebration
Nominations Open for 2025 Minnesota Association of Women Police Awards
The Minnesota Association of Women Police (MAWP) Board is seeking nominations for its annual awards, recognizing outstanding female officers across Minnesota for their service in 2025.
These honors highlight the strength, skills, and dedication of women in law enforcement, while inspiring both current and future generations of officers.
Award Categories
- Officer of the Year Award
- Leadership Award
- Medal of Valor Award
- Excellence in Performance Award
- Melissa Schmidt Community Service Award
- Excellence in Support Award
- Excellence in Service Award
- Community Service Award
- Carolen Daily Mentoring Award
- Recognition of Heritage Award
Award recipients will be recognized at the MAWP Annual Conference, scheduled for May 2026 in Willmar, MN. Both nominees and nominators will be invited to attend.
The MAWP Board will carefully review each submission and select recipients who exemplify leadership, courage, and commitment to community. Nominations for 2025 service must be submitted by March 15, 2026.
Discounted Gopher Tickets for First Responders
The University of Minnesota Athletics Department is offering discounted tickets to upcoming First Responder Appreciation Games:
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Nov. 1: Football vs. Michigan State
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Nov. 11: Women’s Basketball vs. Marquette
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Jan. 17: Men’s Hockey vs. Michigan
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Feb. 28: Men’s Basketball vs. UCLA
The first 50 football purchasers receive VIP Halftime Tunnel access, and all football ticket holders can go on the field after the game. The first 50 men’s hockey purchasers get a VIP Locker Room Tour.
Minnesota Wild Law Enforcement Night
The Minnesota Wild, in partnership with the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) and the Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Association (LEMA), are offering specially priced tickets for Law Enforcement Appreciation Night on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, as the Wild take on the Washington Capitals at Xcel Energy Center.
Ticket packages start at $75.02 and include a Minnesota Wild Law Enforcement hat. A portion of each ticket sale will benefit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
This night is open to all Local, State, Federal Law Enforcement Officers, Corrections Officers, Sheriffs, Security, Public Safety, First Responders, Family members, and the general public.