Anchorage police Lieutenant Nancy Reeder has accepted Fairbanks Mayor Jim Matherly’s offer to serve as the city’s new police chief. Matherly chose her over two other finalists vying for the job that’s about to be vacated by retiring Chief Eric Jewkes.
“She’s a terrific candidate, with a lot of experience,” Matherly said.
Reeder’s served in several positions during her 35 years with Anchorage police, and she now heads up the department’s Internal Affairs office. Reeder’s also an Air Force and Alaska Air National Guard veteran. Matherly says she’s also worked with Fairbanks police on cases and other issues.
“So, it’s going to be an excellent fit, and I’m very happy she’s accepted,” Matherly said.
Matherly says the job offer is contingent on her passing routine background checks, and approval by the City Council. He expects the council will consider the issue in next week’s meeting.
“The City Council will be hearing more about on Monday, at the Monday meeting,” Matherly said. “Hopefully we’ll get their nod, and then she could be in place in mid-May.”
If approved, Reeder will be the first woman to serve as Fairbanks Police chief.
Tim Ellis is a reporter at KUAC in Fairbanks.
