PLEASANTON, Calif. – City Manager Gerry Beaudin is pleased to announce the selection of Chief Tracy Avelar as police chief following a competitive recruitment process. Avelar’s first day with the City will be December 9, 2024.
Chief Avelar brings more than 20 years of distinguished law enforcement experience to Pleasanton, having served with the Foster City Police Department since 2002. Throughout her career, she has gained extensive experience in all aspects of police operations. She worked her way through the ranks and became the first female Lieutenant, Captain, and Chief in Foster City’s history.
“Chief Avelar has a proven track record of leadership and innovation in law enforcement, and we are excited to welcome her to Pleasanton,” said City Manager Gerry Beaudin. “Her dedication to community engagement, public safety, and operational excellence will be a great asset to our city.”
During her time in Foster City, Chief Avelar served in various positions, including overseeing youth services, crime prevention, hiring, and day-to-day operations of the Patrol Division. She also managed critical department programs, including field training, SWAT, and traffic enforcement. As Captain, she was responsible for administrative and operational divisions, overseeing dispatch, records, investigations, and budget preparation.
Chief Avelar is the current president of the California Police Chiefs Association and has served on the San Mateo County Police Chiefs and Sheriff Executive Board. She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management and a master’s in Homeland Security from the Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security. She is also a graduate of the Sherman Block Leadership Institute and the LAPD Leadership Academy.
“Pleasanton holds a special place in my heart, and I am truly honored to step into the role of Police Chief for the City,” said Chief Avelar. “I have so much respect for the men and women of this department and look forward to working alongside them to continue building strong community partnerships, ensuring public safety, and fostering trust and transparency”.
