Fresno mayor-elect assembles transition team that will help him develop public policy

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Lee Brand's transition team illustrates the diverse support he received in winning the race for Fresno mayor.

"If you had a mirror, had that mirror outside. This mirror is a reflection of Fresno, the diversity of this city. Everybody here is a leader is their own respect," said Brand.

The 18 member team includes West Fresno pastors, business, labor, and ag leaders. Some want the new mayor to work on easing the police mistrust felt in some neighborhoods.

"Recruitment of more officers that are from this area. Community policing where you just don't see an officer when there's a problem, but that they're an active part of the community and so helping establish that trust is critical," said Tate Hill, Urban Strategic Enterprises.

The mayor-elect talked of a very ambitious first 100 days in office.

"Top of the list will be rolling out community policing on a citywide basis," said Brand.

The transition team just held its first meeting. Three more are planned to help develop 11 key initiatives to guide Brand's city policies.

"Those include everything from public safety to homelessness to neighborhood revitalization, economic development, educational excellence," said H Spees, Strategic Initiative Director.

Brand's campaign consultant Tim Orman will now serve as Chief of Staff.

Brand will be sworn in as Fresno mayor January 5th.

Mayor-elect Brand has asked City Manager Bruce Rudd to stay on for at least the next six months. If he does not a national search for a New City Manager will begin immediately.