The city of Stockton has begun looking nationwide for its next police chief and launched a survey to gather community input for the recruitment process.

Former Police Chief Eric Jones retired after 29 years with the department, including nine years as its chief.

The city said the survey will help gather information from residents about the expectations, needs and characteristics a candidate should have in order to lead the Stockton Police Department.

“The rigor of this process is extremely important,” City Manager Harry Black said. “Over the next few weeks, we will engage the community in an open and honest conversation about our search for the next Stockton Police Chief.”

According to the city’s recruitment brochure, the department wants candidates to be reform-minded leaders, have top-notch communication skills and a commitment to transparency.

The survey can be found online, as well as a copy of the recruitment brochure.

Victoria Franco is a Stockton-based reporter covering the diverse news around the Central Valley as part of the Report for America program. As a Stockton native, Franco is proud to cover stories within her community and report a variety of coverage. She is a San Jose State University alumna with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism. In her collegiate years she was Managing Editor for the Spartan Daily. From her time at the Spartan Daily she helped lead her staff to California College Media Awards and a General Excellence first place. Victoria encourages readers to email her story tips and ideas at victoria.franco@baycitynews.com.