STEPHEN SALVATORE
Lathrop City Manager
Editor’s note: Lathrop City manager Steve Salvatore is responding to public statements made by terminated Police Chief Raymond Bechler made at Monday’s Lathrop City Council meeting.
As City Manager of Lathrop, my primary duties revolve around managing our municipal operations efficiently, ethically, and transparently. I take immense pride in the remarkable growth our city has achieved, while also maintaining a solid reputation as one of the most financially secure cities in California. Our strides in developing our water infrastructure, stabilizing our tax base, and fostering residential and commercial growth are achievements that have made Lathrop an enviable place to live.
Nearly three years ago, we undertook the ambitious task of establishing our own Police Department. This wasn’t just about elevating the quality of law enforcement services; it was also a strategic financial decision designed to put our city on a path of long-term fiscal health. Building a police force from the ground up was no small feat — it required expertise in various fields from architecture and procurement to personnel management and many more.
The former police chief played a significant role in launching this department. And while I cannot publicly discuss specifics regarding any employee's termination—because to do so would be unprofessional and unjust — it’s important to clarify a few points.
As with all department heads, the role of the police chief is an “at-will” position, meaning that he or she can be terminated at any time. The city council entrusts this responsibility to the City Manager to ensure that personnel decisions are made by professionals, not influenced by political dynamics. When I say that we had reached a point where the former chief could no longer propel the department forward effectively, understand that this decision wasn’t made lightly. It was made after careful consideration, driven solely by what I believe to be in the best interest of our community.
I am fully confident in the abilities of our interim police chief, who heads a team of committed officers and administrative staff. Together, they work not for me, but for the people of Lathrop, delivering the high-quality service our residents deserve.
I recognize that emotions run high when changes occur, especially changes in leadership. Not everyone will agree with or fully understand the tough decisions that are sometimes required in my position. However, I remain steadfast in my belief that the course I've set is the right one for Lathrop's future.
