RIDGEFIELD – City Manager Steve Stuart has appointed Jim Quackenbush as the next chief of the Ridgefield Police Department.
“In a highly competitive hiring process, Jim Quackenbush rose to the top as a leader that will listen and learn our needs, lead our law enforcement team with community focus, bring innovative ideas to keep getting better, and come with the experience to guide us along the path ahead,” said City Manager Steve Stuart.
The recruitment process drew quality applicants from all over the U.S, and included evaluation by community members, Ridgefield Police Department, regional law enforcement leaders, and the City Council.
Quackenbush brings 27 years of law enforcement experience to Ridgefield. He began his career as a patrol officer with the Portland Police Bureau and progressively advanced through the ranks to Acting Captain. He then joined the Boise Police Department in Idaho, where he served as a Lieutenant and Captain. He currently serves as Operations Captain for the Washougal Police Department.
His experience includes leadership in both larger law enforcement organizations and a small but growing Southwest Washington community, like Ridgefield. He also has extensive experience in community policing.
This background will provide valuable experience as Ridgefield continues to grow while maintaining its community-oriented approach to public safety.
“I’m honored to serve as Ridgefield’s next Police Chief. My first priority will be to listen and learn—getting to know our employees, our community, and all of the things that make Ridgefield special,” said Jim Quackenbush. “As the City grows, I look forward to working together to ensure our Police Department remains professional, responsive, and connected to the people we serve.”
"Ridgefield remains a fast-growing city, and every decision we make about our growth comes back to staying true to who we are," said Mayor Matt Cole. "A big part of that is our approach to public safety, and the mission there is straightforward. Know the people you serve, and be invested in our community. Jim understands that mission. Our residents should expect nothing less, and I'm looking forward to them meeting him."
The community is invited to meet Chief Quackenbush and attend his formal swearing-in ceremony during a Meet the Chief event on Tuesday, September 22 from 5 to 7 PM at Davis Park.
The event will include a swearing-in ceremony at 5:30 PM, free hot dogs and chips served by the Ridgefield Lions Club, as well as yard games and kids’ activities. Ridgefield Police Department missed the chance to connect with community at the cancelled National Night Out event, the Meet the Chief event will serve not only as an opportunity to meet Chief Quackenbush and welcome him to the community, but also a chance to interact with all members of the Ridgefield Police Department during a casual community picnic.
Meet the Chief Community Event
5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 22
Swearing-In Ceremony at 5:30 p.m.
Davis Park, 337-411 N Main Avenue, Ridgefield
The community is encouraged to attend and welcome Chief Quackenbush to Ridgefield.
