ARLINGTON — The top six candidates for police chief were introduced to the community Tuesday, Dec. 2, after they were short-listed by city officials from hundreds of applicants, with assistance from Greg Prothman, and Prothman Associates, who were hired to execute the search.

The six candidates were in town from all over for several days in the selection process early last week.

Jeff Sale came from Cheney, Wash. Kent Livsey came for Salt Lake City via Idaho.

Ed Erlandson is a senior member of the Arlington Police Department. Bob Sullenberger came from Boulder, Colo. Nelson Beazeley came from Fresno, Calif., and Joe Curreri, is currently with Los Angeles Police Department.

They had individual interviews and met with several different special interest groups, including City Council, police officers, and the community, and then they each got a tour of Arlington, too.

At the community meeting they were given a chance to introduce themselves and explain why they want the job in front of police officers’ families, city staff and their families, and other members of the community.

The candidates all seemed to share an appreciation for Arlington’s unique identity.

A captain with the Fresno sheriff’s office, Beazley heard about the job from the former Marysville Police Chief Bob Cardin, who had told him a lot about the area.

“I love this area,” he said, adding his son is a student at the University of Washington.

“Arlington is both quaint and progressive,” Curreri shared his conclusions after just a few days here.

Livsey said he loves patrol officers, and likes Arlington because it’s a beautiful place.

Jeff Sale suggested to the audience they put in a good word to his wife, as she would be a big part of his decision if he was to be selected. He had the wisdom of walking main street during his visit, meeting some merchants in town.

“I’m rooting for Jeff Sale,” said Marty Hammer, at The Quiltmakers’ Shoppe.

“He came in here and chatted for a while,” she said.

Greg Prothman said it will be a couple of weeks before any announcement is made.

“Even if we make our choice this week, we will have to make an offer and negotiate a contract. It will take a couple of weeks,” Prothman said.