Police Chief Bernal Sworn In, Celebrated

Newly appointed Mill Valley Police Chief Angel Bernal was sworn in Monday night in front of the City Council and a packed house of residents, personnel from the police and fire departments and Bernal's family.

"I'm confident that the talented men and women of the Mill Valley Police Department will continue doing a tremendous job and the great work they've been doing for this city all along," Bernal said after he took the oath.

City Manager Jim McCann, who made the appointment last week, asked the gathered police department personnel to help their boss in his efforts.

"He's not going to do this by himself," he said. "He's the chief but he's really going to rely on you to give him the assistance and support he needs."

Bernal was universally lauded by the City Council.

Councilman Andrew Berman relayed Bernal's sentiment to him that the night was all about the police officers and firefighters that had shown up to support him.

"That is so typical of this man's character and essence," Berman said. "That shows the kind of guy this man is. He has deep character, sense of community and tons of integrity."

Councilwoman Shawn Marshall reflected back on meeting Bernal a decade ago when they took leadership training together.

"I knew then as we do now how much humanity you have and coupled with that humanity is just incredible integrity and professionalism," she said.

"I'm really glad you're on board and on top now," Mayor Stephanie Moulton-Peters said.

Bernal told the council that he planned to make some staffing changes that will allow officers to gain experience in new areas. Some assignment rotations within the department had grown static, Bernal said, and he hoped to provide officers with experience in areas like the investigation unit and specialty assignments.

Bernal oversees 21 police officers, six staff members and one volunteer.