DOVER — Public comment is welcome at the first Dover Police Chief Selection Committee meeting next week, according to an agenda released by the city on Thursday.

The meeting to discuss the hiring of a new police chief to replace recently retired Paul Bernat will take place at 3 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall. Deputy Chief Maj. Marvin Mailey is overseeing agency operations during the process of finding a permanent successor.

The agenda includes discussion of the committee’s scope, along with schedule and proposed cost for the search. A position description item is also listed.

The meeting will be held in the City Hall conference room at 15 Loockerman Plaza.

The city said public comments “will be permitted at appropriate times.” Those who wish to be recognized are asked, if possible, to call the city clerk at 736-7008 or e-mail Cityclerk@Dover.de.us.

The committee reserves the right to move into a closed session if legal or personnel issues are applicable.

Chief Paul Bernat

The search committee includes Mayor Robin Christiansen, whose office is in charge of the police department, City Council President Tim Slavin, City Manager Scott Koenig, City Human Resources Director Kim Hawkins, and City Council member and Safety Advisory and Transportation Committee chairman Jim Hosfelt.

Mayor Christiansen has the final say on what candidate will be presented to city council for a vote, but has vowed to collaborate with the committee members to determine that choice together. A nationwide search will be conducted.

The agenda notice is available online at www.cityofdover.com/meetings.