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Silvis council unanimously approves Gene Karzin as new police chief, effective Jan. 5
Summary
The Silvis City Council voted 8–0 on Nov. 4 to appoint Gene Karzin as the city's new police chief, with a Jan. 5, 2026 start date. Council members and the outgoing chief praised Karzin; the police department also outlined seasonal programs and outreach plans.
The Silvis City Council on Nov. 4 unanimously approved the appointment of Gene Karzin as the city’s new police chief, setting a start date of Jan. 5, 2026.
The motion to approve Karzin was made by Alderman Doug Greer and seconded by Alderman Steve Marinaccio; the roll-call vote recorded eight yes votes and no nays. Mayor Bob Cervantes presided over the meeting.
Police Chief VanKlaveren, speaking at the meeting, congratulated Karzin and said he has known him for many years: "Congratulations to Gene, I have known Gene for a long time and no doubt he will take the PD to the next level." The chief also acknowledged Sargent Vargus and Sargent Miletich, noting both had applied for the position and presented themselves well.
The item had been moved onto the Nov. 4 agenda earlier in the meeting; council members returned for a formal vote during the regular session. The official motion listed the appointment and the Jan. 5, 2026 start date.
Chief VanKlaveren used his staff report to outline ongoing department activities: the department is participating in "No Shave November," is sponsoring Angel Tree assistance (17 families were reported as supported so far this season), and will run a Shop with a Cop event on Dec. 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. He also invited participation in the Citizens Police Academy scheduled in the Quad Cities area from January through April on Wednesday evenings.
An alderman thanked the outgoing leadership; one alderman said, "welcome Gene and Mark you will be missed," an exchange recorded in the minutes that did not provide a full name for "Mark." The record does not state whether the outgoing chief made a farewell statement beyond the remarks included in his department update.
The council’s approval leaves Karzin scheduled to assume the chief’s duties on Jan. 5, 2026. No amendments or conditions to the appointment were recorded at the meeting.
