Issaquah confirms Steve Milelet as police chief after extensive search and community meetings

The Issaquah City Council voted unanimously June 29 to confirm Steve Milelet as the city's next police chief, effective July 16, following a nationwide search and weeks of community engagement.

Mayor Mark Mullet said panels of staff, community members and councilors interviewed four finalists and that he relied on their recommendations in nominating Milelet. "The most important hire you'll make is your chief of police," the mayor said as he outlined the search process and public outreach that led to the appointment.

Council members who served on interview panels and spoke during the deliberation described Milelet as forthcoming and engaged. Council Member Walsh, who participated on the hiring committee, said public input and follow‑up conversations with colleagues left her confident in the candidate. Deputy President Jay, also on the panel, cited Milelet's outreach in his previous jurisdiction and said the community meeting the chief held for Issaquah residents the day before the council vote demonstrated his willingness to engage.

Several councilors emphasized expectations as they supported the nomination. Deputy President Jay said his "yes" vote came with the expectation that Milelet "engages openly, acts with accountability, and demonstrates through his conduct that these concerns were heard." Council Member Nichols said after two hours of a community meeting she was reassured and looked forward to the chief's community‑engagement plans.

At the dais after confirmation, Milelet thanked the council and the community and pledged to follow through on commitments he has described during the process: "I promise you the things that I say I will deliver on," he said, and added that he would continue to build on the department's positive foundation.

The council recorded the appointment by formal motion and roll‑call; the vote was unanimous.

What happens next: Chief Milelet will assume his duties on July 16. Council members said they expect him to continue community meetings and report back on implementation of his engagement and jail‑safety plans discussed during the selection process.