The City of Golden continues to move forward in its search for the next Chief of Police and has identified two final candidates who will advance in the process. As part of the final selection process, community members are invited to attend a public meet-and-greet event with the candidates on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 5 p.m. at the Golden Community Center (1470 10th Street, Golden). The event will provide residents, employees, business owners, and community stakeholders an opportunity to meet the finalists, ask questions, and provide feedback to the City. The community event is part of a broader interview and evaluation process designed to help identify a leader who aligns with Golden’s values of equity-based policing and priorities. Below are brief biographies for each finalist participating in the process: MICHELE WAGNER has over 25 years of law enforcement experience, working her way through the ranks with the Lakewood Police Department from Agent to Sergeant. She currently serves as the Chief Investigator with the 1st Judicial Attorney’s Office as well as a Governance Committee Board Member for the Colorado POST Greater Metro Training Region. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and is working on a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. SHAWN WRAY began his more than 25-year public safety career in San Diego with City of La Mesa Police Department and San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, working his way through the ranks before moving to Colorado. He currently serves as Division Chief at Wheat Ridge Police Department. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Law Enforcement & Public Safety Leadership. The City appreciates the community’s continued interest and participation throughout the selection process and looks forward to engaging residents as the search moves toward its final stages. XXX