City asks for input as search for Austin police chief ramps up Search for new Austin police chief ramps up The search for a new police chief in Austin is ramping up and the city wants to get your input in what’s been a challenging time for the department. FOX 7 Austin's John Krinjak has details. AUSTIN, Texas - The search for a new police chief in Austin is ramping up and the city wants to get your input in what’s been a challenging time for the department. Starting Monday, the city is holding a series of virtual community meetings. Members of the public will be able to give feedback on who they want to be the city’s next police chief.