Garland City Officials Announce “Major Organizational Change”

GARLAND (WBAP/KLIF) – Garland City Manager Bryan Bradford announced Friday, a significant organizational change.

Police Chief Mitch Bates has agreed to accept a new position as Garland’s Deputy City Manager and Chief Operating Officer. The new position is intended to oversee the day-to-day operations of the City. A national search will be conducted to select a new Police Chief. Bradford said the community will play a significant role in the search for a new Police Chief. Bates will continue to serve as Police Chief until his replacement has been selected. The search process is expected to take approximately six months.

“Garland is a wonderfully diverse community,” Bradford said. “Chief Bates has worked closely with many community leaders to help our Police Department meet those diverse needs. The city as a whole is benefiting from the relationships and bridges he has built.”

Chief Bates began his career with the Garland Police Department 32 years ago, including 16 years as Chief of Police. During Chief Bates’ tenure, the department experienced significant growth and expansion in community policing programs such as the Neighborhood Police Officer Program and the School Resources Officer Program.