Mayor Bloomberg has charged our Committee with the responsibility of finding and recommending to him, from a broad array of men and women reflecting the diversity of New York City, the best-qualified candidates to serve the public as City marshals.
The position of City marshal is unique and demanding. City marshals are called upon to enforce the most sensitive court orders, such as evictions, car seizures, and wage garnishments, with careful regard for the safety and rights of all concerned. City marshals work independently and must support themselves and their offices without public salaries or funding. But they are also public servants who must follow detailed laws and rules and cooperate fully with the Commissioner of the Department of Investigation, who oversees them for the Mayor and the State Supreme Court's Appellate Division.
The Committee therefore seeks candidates with proven qualities of honesty, integrity, maturity of judgment, courtesy, and respect for the law and public service. Candidates must also be able to manage an office, operate a business, and meet their financial obligations.
As of September 2006, State law allows retired New York City Police Officers, Correction Officers, Deputy Sheriffs, Fire Marshals, and others to serve as City marshals while receiving their pensions. The Mayor and the City Council supported the new law because it opens up the challenges and opportunities of a City marshal's appointment to a large and diverse pool of mature applicants, experienced in law enforcement and capable of managing difficult and dangerous situations.
The Committee welcomes qualified applicants who have taken the time to familiarize themselves with the responsibilities and challenges of City marshals. We thank Mayor Bloomberg for giving us this opportunity to serve our City.
Peter J. Madonia
Chair, Mayor's Committee on City Marshals
April 2007