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Council thanks Chief Sean F. Barnes as he departs for Seattle; council adopts appreciation resolution
Summary
The Common Council adopted a resolution expressing appreciation for Madison Police Chief Sean F. Barnes as he resigns to become Seattle's chief of police; Barnes addressed the council by video and council members offered well‑wishes.
The Common Council on Jan. 28 adopted a resolution expressing appreciation to Madison Police Chief Sean F. Barnes for four years of service as he prepares to resign and assume the chief of police role in Seattle, Washington.
The resolution (Legistar 86782) noted Chief Barnes was hired Feb. 1, 2021, and credited him with guiding the Madison Police Department through strategic planning and evidence‑based policing initiatives, supporting civilian oversight structures and leading the department’s response to a recent tragic school incident.
Chief Barnes appeared on video and thanked the council and mayor. "It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the community in Madison," he said. "None of what we accomplished... could have been done by one person. Everything that was written on the proclamation is a collective of a lot of work done by a lot of people." He said he shares the recognition with department staff and called Madison "a very, very special place."
Several council members offered remarks and well wishes. Alder Knox thanked Barnes for professional leadership during difficult incidents; Alder Evers said Barnes "left our city better for the work that you did." The council recorded a unanimous vote in favor of the appreciation resolution and applauded Barnes; the meeting closed the item with an invitation to return to Madison as a guest.
The resolution is honorary; no personnel action was taken at the meeting. Council members referenced Barnes’ new assignment in Seattle and his family history in Madison during remarks.
