The Banning City Council earlier this month unanimously voted to name Lt. Vincent Avila as the city’s next police chief after an extensive selection process that included multiple panels, community meet and greet, city manager interviews and input from the Banning Police Officers Association.
“I have absolutely no hesitation with this appointment,” City Manager Doug Schulze said at the Nov. 12 meeting. “I’m confident that under Chief Avila’s leadership, the department will go great places.”
Avila, who was hired by the department in 2006, has spent his entire law enforcement career with the Banning Police Department. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from California Coast University, according to the city.
Avila completed the Commission on Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) Management Course in 2018 and received his POST Management Certificate the following year. This past summer, he completed a 15-day Drucker Executive Leadership Institute course, the city said.
In addition to his educational background, Schulze said that his willingness to serve the city of Banning and his ability to lead by example were just some of the key attributes that would allow him to succeed in the role.
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“He cares deeply about the Banning Police Department and the Banning community,” Schulze said. “You will see him here [on] holidays making sure the officers are given a holiday meal. They see him here, even though he’s not scheduled to work.”
Avila said he was “deeply honored” to accept the position and said he looked forward to continuing to hear ideas from the entire department for how to best serve the community.
“I am committed to upholding the values and integrity, safety and service for our community,” he said. “Together, we work to strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and the people we serve, ensuring a safer and more unified future for the citizens of Banning.”
He also thanked his wife and three children for their unwavering support, even as he worked odd hours and missed important family celebrations such as birthdays and holidays.
“Thank you for your love and support and patience,” he said. “You have been in my foundation throughout my career.”
Avila officially began his tenure as chief Nov. 13.
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