C-Notes: October 17, 2025
Executive Director Report
This week, we recognized Senator Judy Seeberger and Representative Terry Stier as MCPA’s 2025 Legislators of the Year. Both have demonstrated strong leadership and a consistent commitment to advancing public safety across Minnesota.
Senator Seeberger has been a key voice for law enforcement through her work on the Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee and the Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement. She has championed MCPA priorities such as Brady-Giglio legislation, a buffer zone proposal to protect first responders, and pension improvements that enhance benefits for PERA members.
Representative Stier, drawing on his background in law enforcement, has been an effective advocate on the Judiciary and Civil Law and Public Safety Committees. He led efforts to expand the use of mobile tracking devices and increase penalties for fleeing a peace officer while supporting initiatives that fund officer training, education, and retirement programs.
I also want to thank the MCPA Legislative Committee for their months of work developing the 2026 Legislative Agenda, which the Board approved this week. You can read the full agenda on the MCPA website.
Thank you,
Jeff Potts
Executive Director
Still Time to Register for the Fall Leadership Summit
There’s still time to register for the MCPA Fall Leadership Summit at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd, November 18–20. Chiefs and Command Staff from across Minnesota will gather for two and a half days of professional development, connection, and leadership growth.
The agenda features sessions on AI in investigations, leadership wellness, legislative updates, POST Board updates, and a report on officers injured in the line of duty.
Registration is $280 per person and includes sessions, materials, and group meals. Reserve your room at the special MCPA group rate before October 21. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with your peers and strengthen your leadership.
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.
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
Discounted Gophers 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 Powerful Presence of Four Paws and a Tail
Minnesota’s Department of Public Safety highlights how two newly placed facility dogs, Sampson in the Minnetonka Police Department and Moe in the Crystal Police Department, are boosting wellness, morale, and community connections. Through the Law Enforcement and Fire Department Therapy Dog Grant, these rescued and trained dogs provide comfort, help ease stress among officers, and support victims of crime. Their presence is strengthening trust between law enforcement and the public, one paw at a time.
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.