The confirmation hearing for Bianca Cross, recently appointed Anchorage Police Chief, has been rescheduled to July, coinciding with the new mayoral administration’s taking office. Originally planned for Friday, the hearing was canceled and will now be held after Mayor-elect Suzanne LaFrance is sworn in on July 1, according to Anchorage Assembly Chair Chris Constant.
Constant clarified the decision-making process, stating, “It would not be appropriate to confirm a nominee from the outgoing mayor. The new mayor should make this decision in line with the democratic transition of power.”
When asked about her stance on Cross’s appointment, LaFrance emphasized that the Assembly controls the timing of the confirmation hearing. She commented, “I recently met with Police Chief Cross to discuss the department and our safety priorities for Anchorage. Ensuring public safety is the primary responsibility of local government, and I value her work.”
Looking ahead, LaFrance shared her vision for the future: “I am committed to assembling a team that will not only enhance the effectiveness of local government but also significantly improve safety in Anchorage. I will be sharing more details about this in the coming weeks.”
Cross, a 27-year veteran of the force, was appointed by outgoing Mayor Dave Bronson in April. She is the first woman to lead the Anchorage Police Department in the city’s history.
