The Sterling Heights City Council confirmed the city manager's appointment of Andrew Satterfield as chief of police following a broad recruitment and assessment process described by human resources staff and the city manager.

HR Director Kate Baldwin summarized the recruitment: an assessment center for three finalists conducted by an outside firm, supplemental written exercises and interviews, reference checks and meet-and-greets. Baldwin said Satterfield, an external candidate with a long record in Troy, ranked first on the promotional list.

City Manager Mark Vanderpool reviewed Satterfield's career, including patrol, supervisory, training and command experience in Troy, firearms and tactical training responsibilities, accreditation work and community involvement. "I'm very confident that based on Andrew's municipal experience, extensive academic background, outstanding references ... he will be a very valuable addition to our leadership team," Vanderpool said.

Council moved to confirm Satterfield in accordance with the city charter and the motion passed. Satterfield, joined at the meeting by his wife, gave brief remarks after the confirmation: "I'm deeply honored and humbled to accept the responsibility of serving as the next chief of police for this outstanding city. This is not a position that I take lightly. It's a sacred trust between the police department and the community it serves," he said.

Several council members praised Satterfield's credentials and recommended support; one council member said he was disappointed by what he termed "extracurricular activity" by department members during the recruitment. Council and staff did not take additional action at the meeting beyond the confirmation vote.