Central ND News

A pair of finalists will soon interview for the position of police chief in Bismarck. Daniel Weigel and Jason Stugelmeyer have been named as the leading candidates to replace Dave Draovitch, who is retiring at the end of the month.

“It’s always difficult when you start talking about the end of someone’s career, but for a strong municipal organization to remain dynamic, we need that next generation of good leaders to step up and begin leading the department on a continued path toward success,” said Bismarck City Administrator Jason Tomanek. “The candidate pool was strong and we’re looking forward to the interview process with the finalists to identify the City of Bismarck’s next Chief of Police.”

Weigel currently serves as a patrol commander with the University of North Dakota Police Department in Grand Forks. He has held various roles since 2012, including investigations commander and public information officer. Weigel also worked briefly as a deputy with Walsh County Sheriff’s Office and graduated from UND in 2018 with a degree in communications. He has been on the Grand Forks City Council since 2016.

Stugelmeyer is presently a deputy chief with Bismarck Police Department, where he has served for 24 years in different capacities such as detective and lieutenant. His experience includes 15 years with West Dakota SWAT Team and multiple awards including being named Officer of the Year in 2007. Stugelmeyer holds a degree in criminal justice from University of Minnesota-Moorhead.

Draovitch announced his retirement plans earlier this year after starting his law enforcement career in 1989. Seven individuals applied for his position, but only four advanced to further testing stages before one withdrew voluntarily.

The finalist interview panel comprises five members: Mayor Michael Schmitz, Commissioner John Risch, City Administrator Jason Tomanek, Human Resources Director Leanne Schmidt, and Fire Chief Joel Boespflug.

Following interviews, recommendations will be presented at Bismarck City Commission's meeting on July 22 at Tom Baker Room in City/County Building.