With Montgomery Chief of Police Jim Napolitano set to retire from the department Jan. 31, the city of Montgomery continues its search for its new chief of police. The city has been accepting applications for the police chief position since Dec. 17, and it will continue to accept applications until Jan. 17. According to the job posting on the city's website, a cover letter and resume can be submitted to the city secretary. As of Jan. 10 the city has received 31 applications for the position, City Administrator Jack Yates said via email. Although Jan. 31 is Napolitano's official last day, city officials confirmed Napolitano has been on administrative leave since Oct. 13. The decision to place Napolitano on administrative leave was made following series of executive sessions in September at Montgomery City Council pertaining to personnel matters concerning Napolitano. Lt. Joe Belmares has been serving as interim chief in Napolitano’s absence. The city intends to hire the new police chief after Napolitano’s last day Jan. 31, as well as two additional police officers, Yates said. "While the current eight-member force has completely responded to every call for service during this interim time, there is a need for full staff for filling in for sick days, vacations [and] training days," Yates said. "Also for the best protection over the long-term, the council has budgeted a ten person staff." In a Jan. 4 joint news release from Napolitano and the city, Napolitano thanked citizens, business owners, church leaders, county leaders and law enforcement agencies for their support during his five-year tenure. “One of my most profound achievements has been sharing my experience and knowledge from thirty years in law enforcement to the police officers–providing them the opportunity for professional and tactical development with improved awareness for their own personal safety,” Napolitano stated in the release. “I leave the city of Montgomery Police Department with a legacy of servitude and peace of mind that I have given my all. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Montgomery.”