Administration
 Christian E. Mathiesen Public Safety Commissioner "Serving since 2012" |
Christian E. Mathiesen began his first term as Commissioner of Public Safety on January 1, 2012. A Saratoga Springs resident since early childhood, he attended parochial schools and was a member of the St. Peter's Academy Class of 1968. He earned his BA from Boston College and his doctorate in dental medicine from Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry. Dr. Mathiesen has practiced general dentistry in Saratoga Springs since 1978. He has served as president and for many years as a board member of the Fourth District Dental Society. He was a Saratoga Springs Democratic Committee member (1992-2008), a graduate of Leadership Saratoga (Class of 2000) and he was a member (2000-2006) and chair (2005-06) of the Saratoga Springs Zoning Board of Appeals. He and his wife, Fran, reside at 28 Friar Tuck Way where they raised their five children. As Public Safety Commissioner, Dr. Mathiesen provides civilian oversight of the Saratoga Springs Police Department. He applauds the excellent work of our police officers and their dedication to the safety and well-being of our citizens. |
 Christopher Cole Chief of Police "Serving since 1990" |
Chief Cole began his career with the department as a part-time dispatcher in 1989 and was appointed to a full-time sworn police officer position in August, 1990. In September, 1996, he was promoted to the rank of patrol sergeant assigned to both the first (12a-8a) and second (8a-4p) shifts. In addition to his duties as a road sergeant, Cole was also responsible for the management of the department's training. In 2003, Cole was promoted to the rank of Patrol Lieutenant, commanding officers on the second shift. Along with his regular duties, he took over the department's field training officer program and continued his responsibilities as the department's training coordinator. It was during this time that the department began to modernize and update its training equipment and methods. Today, the department is recognized as a leader in the Capital District regarding its proactive and realistic training methods. Cole was promoted to Assistant Chief in 2006. As Assistant Chief, he was responsible for the day-day operations of the department under the direction of Chief Edward Moore. He was also responsible for the implementation of the department's $7 million budget and for the procurement of services and equipment. Additionally, he wrote several grants for the department and received grant awards in excess of $265,000.00 for the purchase of mobile laptop computers for all patrol vehicles and updated tactical training and equipment. Chief Cole was promoted to his current position on December 13, 2009 upon the retirement of Chief Moore. |