Bradenton council confirms Josh Kramer as police chief; swearing-in set for July 8

The Bradenton City Council voted to confirm Assistant Chief Josh Kramer as the city’s next chief of police on May 28. The council took the confirmation vote after Mayor (Gene Brown) announced Chief Bevin’s retirement and described a multi‑step vetting process. Kramer thanked the council and said he would continue the department’s stated motto and focus on service to the community.

Mayor and staff said the appointment followed an internal recruitment and vetting process; the mayor said he interviewed more than a dozen department members, including officers and supervisors. The mayor highlighted department investments in compensation and training and said the July 8 swearing‑in at the Historic Courthouse will also include a separate swearing‑in of several officers that will restore the department to its authorized strength of 133 officers.

Vice Mayor Kramer (who recused himself from the specific vote and then later led other council actions) and Council members moved to confirm Kramer as chief; the motion carried 4–0 (one recusal). The mayor thanked the other candidates for participating in a “tough decision” process.

Kramer said he will continue the department’s stated values and pledged professionalism, courage and transparency as chief.