City Manager John Connet has named Bill Hollingsed as the Interim Chief of Police for the Hendersonville Police Department. The former longtime Chief of the Waynesville Police Department is currently serving as Executive Director of the NC Association of Chiefs of Police. The announcement comes as Chief Herbert Blake transitions to his new role as Chief Deputy with the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office.
“Bill Hollingsed brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this position,” said City Manager John Connet. “We believe he will be a great fit for the department and the community as we begin our search for a permanent successor.”
Chief Hollingsed retired from the Waynesville Police Department in 2019 after more than twenty years of service as Chief. He previously served as Western Carolina University’s Police Chief after more than a decade of law enforcement experience with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. He is known throughout the state for his professionalism, community policing innovations, and continued support of strengthening relationships between officers and the people they serve.
"I am looking forward to working with the men and women of the HPD, local officials, and the community at large,” said Chief Holllingsed. “The transition period between Chiefs in a Police Department can be looked at as an opportunity to examine and analyze ways to increase communication and cooperation between the agency and the community that we serve. I truly look forward to meeting and working with individuals throughout the City of Hendersonville."
Chief Hollingsed is scheduled to begin as Interim Chief on August 24. Details regarding the selection process for Chief will be presented to City Council at their meeting on September 3.
