Shafter Police Chief Zimmermann resigns, receives $245K+ settlement

The City of Shafter will pay Chief of Police Kevin Zimmermann a $245,203 12-month severance settlement, provide COBRA benefits for 12 months, and pay out his accrued vacation in exchange for his resignation, effective Nov. 20. This agreement was announced in a statement read by City Attorney Marco Martinez during the closed session of the Tuesday, November 19, city council meeting.

Martinez stated that all terms are pursuant to Chief Zimmermann's employment agreement. In return, the chief agrees to release any claims, known or unknown, against the City of Shafter.

At a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, City Manager Lance Lippincott said that Chief Zimmermann's resignation was voluntary and that he has been on leave for approximately 12–13 months, coinciding with the time Chief of Police Randy Milligan has served in the interim role. Milligan will continue to lead the department while a replacement is found.

In a telephone interview, Mayor Chad Givens said Chief Zimmermann's extended absence was due to a disability leave and that his resignation was health-related.

Lippincott is in discussions with potential candidates for a replacement chief and feels confident he can find one by early December. He said he is seeking a chief focused on a community policing model.

When asked if he foresees any challenges securing a candidate, Lippincott said, "It's always tough to find a new chief, but what I think is great about here is that the council always makes sure the chief is well compensated."