During the Cedar Falls City Council meeting on November 7, 2022, the Council named Mark Howard the new Cedar Falls Police Chief. Howard had been serving as Acting Police Chief since March 2022 following the appointment of former Chief Craig Berte to Public Safety Director.
The vote came after a recommendation from Mayor Rob Green, City Administrator Ron Gaines, and Public Safety Director Berte to appoint Howard, who has been with the Cedar Falls Police Department since 2007. He has served as a Police Officer, Investigator, Lieutenant, Captain, and Public Safety Captain.
Howard graduated from Cedar Falls High School in 1987 and the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) in 1993. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science as well as a Master's Degree in Public Policy from UNI.
"I grew up in Cedar Falls and I truly enjoy serving every day to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens," said Howard. "After 16 years with the City, I look forward to continuing my service as the Police Chief alongside our incredible team of officers and employees," said Howard.
"The Cedar Falls Police Division will continue to make the city a better place for all by providing effective and efficient proactive police services, utilizing technology and special enforcement efforts targeting areas with the potential for violent crime."
Howard's new position became effective on November 8.