David Smutzler has been hired as the new Decorah Chief of Police

The next Chief of Police in Decorah is a familiar face.  David Smutzler was unanimously approved Monday night by the Decorah City Council as the next Police Chief, succeeding Bill Nixon, who retired in July.

Smutzler has 28 years in law enforcement and has served the last nine years as Assistant Chief in Decorah. 

After Monday night's city council vote, Smutzler thanked his mother and father, who attended the city council meeting, for instilling "a moral compass inside me."  He thanked his wife, Kelly, saying she "is why I'm here today."  Smutzler also thanked the people of the Decorah community for their support.

He was sworn into office Monday night and begins his new position immediately.