C-Notes: May 1, 2026
A Message from MCPA President Brian Podany
Members of the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association,
I hope you are all doing great and enjoying the Spring. My name is Brian Podany, and I am from the Blaine Police Department. It is an honor to be your new MCPA President for the coming year. For those I have not met, I look forward to getting to know you.
I have already begun attending the regional meetings and am excited to continue serving our MCPA. Chief Jay Henthorne from the Richfield Police Department did an incredible job advancing various initiatives and strengthening both our Association and the MN Chiefs of Police Foundation. Thank you, Chief Henthorne, for your incredible dedication and work during your tenure. You are a tough act to follow.
The ETI Conference in St. Cloud was a huge success and had many incredible sessions, including debriefs on the Burnsville Incident and the Legislative shootings. We are fortunate to have strong leaders and courageous officers in those communities, and our hearts will always be with those we lost, as well as their loved ones and public safety partners.
Our Chiefs’ Association exists for many reasons, the foundation of which is those willing to step up and take on additional duties to strengthen our profession and our role as law enforcement leaders. We have many avenues for getting involved, built on our vision of being the recognized voice for professional law enforcement in Minnesota. This can only be accomplished with strong leaders who are committed to diligently serving their own communities while providing for the greater good of public safety. These avenues include providing enhanced training, advocating at the legislative level for sound public safety laws, and representing public safety at a multitude of organizations and initiatives.
As your President, I am committed to building cohesion across our great State and promoting the role of law enforcement. To do our jobs effectively, we need a strong support system. This includes not only in our personal lives but also in our profession. My goal is to enhance the support the MCPA provides to our Chiefs and Administrators so we can be the best we can be at taking care of our staff and communities. This will include continuing our mentoring program with a focus on leadership presence, exploring legislative incentives for law enforcement service, providing centralized resources for MCPA members, and developing formalized peer group programming.
We have all seen time and time again that we need each other’s support, and the MCPA is the perfect avenue to do that, regardless of our agency size, community makeup, or location. This shared purpose will continue to grow and strengthen each other. I look forward to getting to know you better and expanding on the already incredible opportunities the MCPA provides.
Thank you for all you do every day as we continue our incredible honor of service to others.
Chief Brian Podany
MCPA President
MCPA Day at the Capitol Recap
More than 50 chiefs from across Minnesota gathered at the State Capitol for MCPA’s annual Day at the Capitol, connecting directly with legislators and public safety leaders during a pivotal week in the legislative session.
The program featured remarks and discussion with key policymakers, including Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson, Speaker Lisa Demuth, Representative Kelly Moller, Senator Warren Limmer, Senator Nick Frentz, and others. Conversations focused on current public safety priorities and legislation moving through both chambers.
Notably, the event took place the same day the House unanimously passed legislation to strengthen penalties for impersonating a peace officer. The bipartisan bill elevates the offense to a felony and adds enhanced penalties in cases involving firearms, vehicles, or additional crimes. The issue was a consistent theme throughout the morning, with many legislators emphasizing the importance of protecting public trust and ensuring accountability.
MCPA members also had the opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers on this and other key issues, reinforcing the role of law enforcement leaders in shaping policy and strengthening public safety efforts across Minnesota.
Legislative Session Update – Week Ending April 25
Legislative Session Update – Week Ending April 25
With less than a month remaining before adjournment on May 18, legislative activity has largely shifted to the House and Senate floors, with most committees completing their work for the session. Ongoing discussions are focused on advancing omnibus bills and navigating challenges created by the tied House, where some legislation lacks companion bills and requires coordination between chambers.
In the Senate, the Omnibus Public Safety Policy Bill passed with several amendments, while a broader safety and security package is moving to the floor. In the House, legislation increasing penalties for impersonating a peace officer passed unanimously, and the Public Safety Omnibus Finance Bill continues advancing. Key issues in play include firearm penalties, ERPO updates, Brady-Giglio processes, and funding increases for the Philando Castile Memorial Training Fund as negotiations and floor action continue.
2026 Fall Leadership Summit
Registration is now open for the 2026 MCPA Fall Leadership Summit, taking place September 28–30 at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd.
The Summit brings together Minnesota’s law enforcement leaders for a focused leadership retreat featuring professional development, peer collaboration, and discussions on the key challenges facing policing today. Designed to complement larger events like ETI, the Summit offers a more intimate setting for meaningful conversations and strategic leadership development.
Over the course of the two-and-a-half-day program, chiefs and command staff will participate in expert-led sessions, networking opportunities, and collaborative discussions aimed at strengthening leadership and advancing public safety across the state.
Additional details, including the full agenda and registration information, are available on the event page.
Chief Tanya Schwartz Retirement
Chief Tanya Schwartz Retirement
The City of Burnsville invites you to help celebrate Chief Tanya Schwartz as she retires after 31 years of service and leadership in law enforcement.
Photos and video messages are being collected for a retirement tribute. If you would like to participate, please submit your message by May 13.
Police Chief opening – City of Janesville
The City of Janesville is seeking a Police Chief to lead its department and oversee all operations, including personnel, budgeting, policy development, and community policing efforts. The department includes a chief, sergeant, full-time officers, and part-time staff, serving a community of approximately 2,500 residents.
This full-time leadership role reports to the City Administrator and plays a key role in shaping public safety services, maintaining compliance with state and federal standards, and building strong community relationships. The position offers a starting salary range of $97,989–$108,638 plus benefits, with an anticipated start date of August 2026.
Police Chief opening – Centennial Lakes Police Department
The Centennial Lakes Police Department is seeking a Police Chief to lead this joint-jurisdictional agency serving the cities of Centerville, Circle Pines, and Lexington in Anoka County. The department serves just over 12,000 residents across five square miles and operates with a 2026 budget of $3.38 million, responding to more than 9,200 calls for service annually.
This is an opportunity to lead a high-performing, well-trained department with strong community support in a low-crime area that offers small-town character with convenient access to the Twin Cities metro. The next chief will guide a relatively young workforce and continue building on a culture grounded in professionalism and service. Salary range is $140,000–$165,000 DOQ, with first review of applications on May 17, 2026.
Policies360 delivers Minnesota-specific, accreditation-ready policies aligned with MNLEAP standards. Built on Minnesota law and practice—not generic nationwide “best practices”—these policies are relevant, defensible, concise, and written in plain English. They are intentionally designed to avoid overly prescriptive language that can limit professional discretion.
The Policies360 mobile app places every policy directly in the hands of officers, providing real-time access that supports confident, consistent decision-making in the field. All policies are attorney-researched, vetted by experienced Minnesota law enforcement professionals, and supported by direct access to a dedicated LETAC attorney and staff.
Minnesota Department of Public Safety Updates
Minnesota Department of Public Safety Updates
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is sharing two updates relevant to law enforcement personnel:
Driver’s License Update
A recent change to UV ink used on Minnesota driver’s licenses and IDs may cause some cards to appear slightly different. Both old and new versions remain valid.
Minnesota Air Rescue Team (MART)
As calls involving lost or injured individuals increase this time of year, the Minnesota Air Rescue Team (MART) is available to assist with complex incidents in rural or hard-to-access areas.
- Free, statewide helicopter search and rescue
- Activation: request via dispatch — “Contact State Patrol and request the MN Air Rescue Team”
- 24/7 response with hoist rescue capabilities
- Early activation helps reduce response times
If you have any questions, please contact Jeremy Barta at jeremy.barta@ci.stpaul.mn.us or 612-518-5780.
Law Enforcement Volunteer Opportunity
Volunteers are needed to assist with residence hall access control during the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, June 20–27 at the University of Minnesota and National Sports Center.
More than 4,500 athletes and coaches will be housed in UofM residence halls. Volunteers will help ensure only credentialed individuals assigned to each dorm are granted access. This role involves direct interaction with participants and supports a safe, positive experience.
Details:
- Shifts: 4:00–10:00 p.m.
- One volunteer per residence hall
- Open to current and past law enforcement
Volunteers must register before selecting shifts via a private link.
For questions, contact Mark Sitarz at msitarz@2026usagames.org or 612-518-8433.
MN Wild Hero of the Game - Submit a Nomination
The Axtell Group is proud to partner with the Minnesota Wild to recognize outstanding law enforcement professionals during home playoff games and to begin building a strong list of candidates for the 2026–2027 season.
Nominations are now being accepted for officers, deputies, and troopers who have made a meaningful impact, whether through recent actions or a career of dedicated service. All nominations will be shared with the Minnesota Wild as they select individuals to be recognized at select games.
During the regular season, there are a limited number of recognition opportunities, typically 12 to 15 games. While every nomination is valued, not all nominees will be selected.
Consider nominating someone from your agency who stands out, such as:
- Officer, Deputy, or Trooper of the Year recipients
- Life-saving award honorees
- Individuals with strong community connections
- Those who consistently make a difference behind the scenes
This program is a meaningful way to recognize their work and show appreciation for their service.
Each selected honoree will receive:
- Two tickets to a Minnesota Wild home game (based on availability, with the possibility of 1–2 additional tickets)
- Recognition on the scoreboard during a first-period break
- An opportunity for your agency to share their story on social media
NOBLE Region IV Training Conference
The Bloomington Police Department will host the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Region IV Training Conference at the Radisson Blu Mall of America from June 5–7, 2026.
Hosted by the NOBLE Northstar Chapter, this regional conference brings together law enforcement professionals from across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. The event will also celebrate NOBLE’s 50th anniversary.
The conference offers valuable training and networking opportunities with law enforcement executives from across the region. All are welcome to attend and learn more about NOBLE and its mission. The Northstar Chapter currently includes approximately 40 members.
If you have any questions, please contact Chief Booker T. Hodges.
MN Twins Law Enforcement Nights
MN Twins Law Enforcement Nights
The Minnesota Twins are partnering with the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund for two special Law Enforcement Night games at Target Field:
- Friday, July 24, 2026, at 7:10 p.m. vs. the Athletics
- Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 6:40 p.m. vs. the Atlanta Braves
Tickets start at $26.75, with options available for law enforcement, corrections, family, friends, and the general public. For every ticket sold, $5 will be donated to NLEOMF.
Order online: Minnesota Twins Law Enforcement Night – National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
For groups of 20 or more, contact Liz Pilarski at LizPilarski@twins.com or 612-659-3852.
MCPA Trainings
MCPA Executive Leadership College
The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association is launching the MCPA Executive Leadership College, an intensive leadership and management program designed for current and aspiring chiefs, sheriffs, and command staff.
Comparable in scope to nationally recognized programs such as Northwestern’s Police Staff & Command School and the FBI National Academy, this series prepares experienced professionals for the demands of senior leadership.
Participants will earn a Certificate of Completion and receive 12 graduate-level credits from Metro State University, which may be applied toward a Master of Science in Criminal Justice & Public Safety Leadership.
Topics include strategic leadership, executive decision-making, community engagement, organizational psychology, communication, and data-driven policing. Instruction is delivered by experienced Minnesota law enforcement leaders.
Session Dates: November 2026 through April 2027
For questions, contact Stephanie Revering, MCPA Training and Operations Director.
Register for MCPA's Leadership Academy
Registration is open for MCPA’s 2026 Leadership Academies, an immersive 3.5-day training experience designed for middle management and first-line supervisors in law enforcement. The Academy helps participants make a confident transition from street officer to effective supervisor, covering essential topics such as complaint sorting and discipline, performance appraisals, leadership principles, and media relations.
Upcoming 2026 Sessions:
- May 18–21 — New Brighton
- Sept. 15–18 — New Brighton
- Dec. 7–11 — Camp Ripley
Sessions are taught by seasoned Minnesota leadership instructors and are limited to 30–40 attendees per session.
MCPA's NEW Advanced Leadership Academy
Join MCPA on September 9–10, 2026, in New Brighton for the Advanced Leadership Academy, a 1.5-day, POST-approved program designed to strengthen leadership skills for law enforcement supervisors.
Building on foundational supervision principles, the academy focuses on transformational leadership, team dynamics, conflict resolution, and strategic self-assessment.
This program is designed for middle management and first-line supervisors and supports participants in successfully transitioning from street officer to effective leader.
CLEO & Command Academy Update
The MCPA's CLEO & Command Academy brings together chiefs and command-level leaders from across Minnesota who are engaged in advanced leadership development, strategic thinking, and peer collaboration. As the 2026 session reaches its midpoint, the MCPA would like to share a brief update.
Participants have completed coursework focused on executive leadership, organizational culture, critical incident leadership, and contemporary challenges facing law enforcement executives. Instructors and facilitators have noted a high level of engagement, thoughtful discussion, and meaningful application of course content to real-world leadership challenges.
The MCPA appreciates its members' continued support for investing in leadership development for the profession.
For questions about the academy or other Center for Police Leadership training opportunities, please contact Stephanie Revering, MCPA Training & Operations Director.
Thank you for your continued commitment to professional excellence and leadership in Minnesota law enforcement.