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Parlier swears in new police chief; council approves contract
Summary
The Parlier City Council on Aug. 6 swore in Irene Garza as the city’s new police chief, approved her contract by a 5-0 vote and heard transition remarks from the outgoing chief about staffing, accountability and community trust.
Parlier formally swore in Irene Garza as its new chief of police during the council’s Aug. 6 meeting, and the council approved the employment contract in a 5-0 vote. Mayor Amla Beltran presided over the ceremony and the swearing-in.
Outgoing Chief Salvador delivered a farewell address that framed the transition as stewardship: “Take care of them,” he told the incoming chief and department staff. Garza, who repeated the oath as part of the ceremony, thanked family members and city staff and described her policing philosophy as “trust, partnership, and service.” The council approved resolution 2026-80 to adopt the chief’s contract (mover: Diego; second: Sabrina; motion carries 5 yes).
The ceremony included remarks asking the new chief to prioritize officer development, accountability and community accessibility. Council members publicly thanked the interim leader for stepping in during the hiring process and said they expect a seamless transition. City staff said the chief will begin formal duties Monday and the council expects continued coordination on staffing and on department priorities such as replacing aging equipment.
