PHX Reporter

The Phoenix City Council has voted unanimously to approve the contract to hire Michael Sullivan as the interim police chief, the city said in a news release. 

"The contract to hire Michael Sullivan as the Interim  @PhoenixPolice Chief has been approved and signed, the last step before bringing the 27-year veteran of law enforcement to his new role in Phoenix," the city tweeted.

Sullivan, a 27-year veteran of law enforcement, started as the interim Phoenix police chief on Sept. 12. The initial one-year term in the contract is susceptible to change and can be extended up to 24 months. He will direct Phoenix police through the Department of Justice civil pattern or practice investigation.

"Chief Sullivan is a leader with a history as a reformer who evaluates best practices and brings positive community change," Jeff Barton, city manager of Phoenix, said.

Sullivan thanked Barrton "for this opportunity to work with the women and men of the Phoenix Police Department and the communities which make up the fabric of Phoenix," he said in a statement. 

He also thanked Mayor Gallego and the city council for approving his employment agreement. 

"This is an important time for the city and the Phoenix Police Department," Sullivan said.

Over the next few weeks, he plans to spend a lot of time observing and listening, the new chief said.

"My focus will be on reducing and preventing violent crime, building trusting relationships with the members of the police department, city officials and community members, and working to continue the reform work already underway," he said.