Snoqualmie Police Chief Brian Lynch took his oath of office at the Snoqualmie City Council on Nov. 27.

Lynch, hired as a police captain in 2022 and promoted to interim chief in June, was tapped by Snoqualmie Mayor Katherine Ross to become the city’s permanent chief of police last month. His appointment was unanimously confirmed by the city council this week.

“Since stepping forward to lead the department, I have been impressed with Interim Chief Lynch’s strong leadership and track record of accomplishments and he has filled multiple police officer positions, streamlined administrative processes and boosted department morale,” Ross said.

Lynch, a North Bend resident and 20-year veteran of the force, was hired by the Snoqualmie Police Department in 2022. He previously worked for the Black Diamond and Enumclaw police departments. Before his time in law enforcement, he worked in the emergency medical field, Ross said.

“On my way here from my house tonight, the gravity of the situation hit me,” Lynch said during a speech. “I never sought out to be a police chief, but the the position, I feel, chose me.

“To the citizens of Snoqualmie, these stars are very heavy, and I understand the weight of them. I can assure you the mayor and city council have made the right decision, because I am the man to wear them.”