Fargo City Commission to Discuss Interim Police Leadership

Commission to set timeline for selecting new police chief after current chief's retirement

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:18am

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The Fargo City Commission is scheduled to discuss interim leadership and the timeline for choosing Fargo's next police chief at their upcoming meeting. Commissioner Denise Kolpack has requested this discussion to provide clear direction and continuity for the police department following the announced retirement of the current police chief.

Why it matters

The selection of a new police chief is an important decision that can significantly impact public safety and community relations. Establishing interim leadership and a clear timeline for the search process is crucial to maintaining stability and continuity within the police department during this transition.

The details

After current Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski announced his retirement on March 27, City Administrator Michael Redlinger said the commission would discuss the path forward at their next meeting. Commissioner Denise Kolpack is now requesting the commission have this discussion on Monday night to provide 'clear direction and continuity for the department' during the transition.

  • Police Chief David Zibolski announced his retirement on March 27, 2026.
  • The Fargo City Commission is scheduled to discuss interim leadership and the timeline for selecting a new police chief at their meeting on March 30, 2026.

The players

Denise Kolpack

A Fargo City Commissioner who has requested the discussion on interim police leadership and the timeline for selecting a new police chief.

Michael Redlinger

The Fargo City Administrator who initially said the commission would discuss the path forward after the police chief's retirement announcement.

David Zibolski

The current Fargo Police Chief who has announced his retirement.

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What they’re saying

“Discussing the transition now is necessitated for 'clear direction and continuity for the department'.”

— Denise Kolpack, Fargo City Commissioner

What’s next

The Fargo City Commission is scheduled to discuss interim police leadership and the timeline for selecting a new police chief at their meeting on March 30, 2026.

The takeaway

The selection of a new police chief is a critical decision for the city of Fargo, and establishing clear interim leadership and a transparent timeline for the search process is important to maintain stability and public trust in the police department during this transition.