FERNDALE, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The Ferndale Police Department is experiencing a major shakeup in leadership.

City of Ferndale spokesperson Megan Juenemann said on Tuesday, Nov. 19, that Police Chief Kevin Turner is ending his tenure on Nov. 29 of this year. Turner has been the Chief of Police since February of 2017.

“We are grateful for Chief Kevin Turner’s time in Ferndale and wish him well in his new role. During his tenure, Chief Turner led the Ferndale Police Department with integrity and professionalism and successfully shepherded Ferndale through the rigorous accreditation process – making Ferndale one of only 2 accredited agencies in Whatcom County. As the city looks toward the search for our next Chief of Police, we will endeavor to include a variety of community stakeholders,” Mayor Hansen said.

Turner announced his resignation from the position to city staff late last month, adding that this was not an easy decision.

Retired Lieutenant Matt Huffman will take over as interim Chief of Police on Dec. 9. Huffman retired from the force in 2023 after 26 years with the Ferndale Police Department.

Juenemann adds that the City has entered into a contract with the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police (WASPC) for recruiting a new chief.