Redwood City officials confirmed today that Police Chief Louis A. Cobarruviaz has submitted his resignation effective February 16, 2011. As he resigned from his position after 4 years with the city, Chief Cobarruviaz stated that he “truly hated to leave the dedicated and outstanding men and women of the Redwood City Police Department.” He emphasized that his decision was at least partially based on his belief that the City Council and their new City Manager should have the opportunity to make necessary staff reductions and select their own team of department managers for the long term.
“The Police Department is functioning very effectively and efficiently at this time, and all department members are prepared for whatever the future may bring,” Cobarruviaz added. Cobarruviaz outlined department achievements: “I believe I have accomplished all of the public safety goals set for me by the City. We have achieved significant crime reduction, computerization, improved use of technology, re-establishment of the Police Harbor Patrol Program, enhanced community policing, and necessary adjustments in work hours and shifts to prevent crime and improve the quality of life in Redwood City.” He stated that the department had worked hard to compensate for personnel reductions, resulting in little change in service delivery. “Credit must be given to the outstanding and dedicated sworn and non-sworn members of this excellent police agency, who are strongly committed to public safety in Redwood City and the larger community.” This was demonstrated in a recent Council-initiated community survey that showed Redwood City residents reported high levels of satisfaction with the work being done by our police department.
Cobarruviaz said he looked forward to moving on to another law enforcement assignment. “It’s been a great experience for me, working in beautiful Redwood City, but I think it’s time for me to step aside and let the new City Manager direct his or her own team.”
Interim City Manager Bob Bell expressed gratitude for the years Cobarruviaz had directed the Police Department. “Chief Cobarruviaz has worked well with both city staff and the Redwood City community. He has been dedicated to maintaining a high level of safety for our residents, and has been very effective. We will be sorry to see him go, but wish him well in all his future endeavors,” Bell stated.
Cobarruviaz said he is looking forward to continuing work in law enforcement, but will maintain ties to the Redwood City community.