The first of three candidates to speak to the public about the position of Ames chief of police said he has the experience and knowledge to bring with him “continual improvement.”

The interviewing process to find a new chief of the Ames Police Department has produced three finalists. Among them is Loras Jaeger, director of the ISU Department of Public Safety.

Jaeger was the first of the three candidates to have an event that allowed the public to meet the prospective chiefs.

He answered questions and outlined goals in the relaxed atmosphere, explaining his motivation in applying for the position.

“It’s a new challenge. I have been with the university for several years. Ames is a wonderful community, and the opportunity presented itself,” he said.

Jaeger also addressed his 11 years of experience as director of DPS. “I have enjoyed that immensely,” he said. “It is one of the better campus law enforcement agencies in the country.”

He added that if not selected for the Ames position he would continue to be director of DPS. He said he would still work closely with the city police officers.

“I put a lot of time and sweat into that department and would continue to strengthen that relationship,” Jaeger said.

He said his experience in coordinating the two agencies is an asset he could offer the department.

“I would certainly like to utilize my contacts at the university. I think that is a resource,” he said.

Jaeger said he has worked with unionized law enforcement in the past. He spoke of his former position as police chief in Cedar Falls, where he worked with unions.

“I understand the collective bargaining contract. We can work at issues that come up. If we have that understanding, it can be a good experience,” he said.

Capt. Terry Bird, Ames Police Department, has been serving as the interim chief of police since Dennis Ballantine retired from the position earlier this year.

Bird said Jaeger does have the advantage of being familiar with the Ames community.

“He knows the system already. He knows the community. He has lived here. He knows a lot of people at the university and city and has dealt with them before,” he said.

Bird also expressed his interest in the other candidates, who will also be participating in question and answer sessions.

“I am looking forward to meeting the other guys,” he said.

William Sudbury, the current police chief in Munster, Indiana, will be having his conference on June 29, from 4 to 5 p.m. in room 235 of City Hall.

The third candidate, William Sullivan, will be answering questions on July 10 at the same time and place.