The Arcata City Council on Oct. 1 ratified an employment agreement appointing Christian (Chris) Ortega as Arcata’s next police chief, covering the term Oct. 12, 2025 through Oct. 31, 2029.

Councilmember White offered strong public support for Ortega, noting his more than 20 years with the Arcata Police Department and experience across patrol, investigations, school resource officer duties, grant management and community outreach. White said Ortega “has our Latinx community’s back” and described a recent town hall where Ortega’s leadership reassured a limited-English speaker.

Residents offered public remarks in support. Joanne McGarry said she had extended conversations with Ortega and was “very excited” about his appointment. Dan Shaheen and another speaker also complimented Ortega’s responsiveness on community incidents and outreach.

The council approved the employment agreement by voice vote.

Why it matters: The ratification formalizes the department’s leadership and highlights the council’s emphasis on community-oriented policing and outreach to Arcata’s Latinx residents.

What’s next: Ortega will assume the duties of police chief per the employment agreement; staff will process the ratification paperwork and proceed with transition tasks in the department.