CONCORD – City Manager Brian Hiatt named Guy Smith as the city’s next chief of police today. The position has been vacant since April, when Merl Hamilton was promoted to assistant city manager. Smith has served as interim chief since April.
“Chief Smith has clearly demonstrated his commitment to the community he was born in, the city organization, and the Concord Police Department,” said Hiatt. “He is a person of high integrity that has the experience and leadership skills to maintain the department’s focus on customer service and community relationships while promoting a culture of problem solving and accountability.”
Guy Smith has served in the Concord Police Department for his entire law enforcement career, beginning as a patrol officer in 1982. He served as a criminal investigations detective from 1987 until 1992, and then gained supervisory and command experience in several units including criminal investigations, support services and patrol.
In 2000, at the rank of major, Smith was named second in command and provided management for all departmental units, planned and administered the departmental budget, served as a liaison to adjacent local and state agencies, and performed the responsibilities of chief of police in his absence. Smith became deputy chief of police in 2002, and has twice served as interim chief of police.
In his capacity as chief, he will direct 184 sworn and non-sworn coworkers in meeting departmental goals and objectives, and manage a $17.3 million budget.
“I am honored to be given this opportunity by the city of Concord,” said Smith. “I consider myself fortunate to be one of the very few law enforcement officers who have been able to work for his hometown community, and appreciate the chance to serve Concord in this new capacity.”
Smith serves on the board of directors of the Boys and Girls Club of Cabarrus County, and is its vice president. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Smith lives in Concord and is a member of Rock Grove United Methodist Church. He is also involved with several other community organizations.
Smith will assume his new position on Monday, Oct. 3. A swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Oct. 13 City Council meeting, and a public drop-in reception will be scheduled in the near future.