ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - What do St. Louisans want to see in their new police chief?

A lot of character traits, like integrity, were thrown around at the first of three forums on what the public expects out of the next chief.

It was also suggested that the next chief make a long-term commitment to the job. One woman emphasized the importance of neighborhood watch programs, and residents getting face-time with leaders. Police commissioners even heard that the next chief should have a masters degree, or have spent decades patrolling the streets. Everybody wants a man — or woman — who thinks outside the box and can be successful in lowering the crime rates.

Listen to what St. Louisans had to say:

One person referenced rumors that Director of Public Safety Eddie Roth would be police commissioner and that Mayor Slay’s Operations Director, Captain Sam Dotson, would be the next chief. The forum was not a question-and-answer and the rumor was not addressed.

There are two more public forums scheduled:

• Thursday, November 8 at Gribic Banquet Center, 4071 Keokuk, at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, November 13 at Omega Center, 3900 Goodfellow, at 6:30 p.m.

KMOX © Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.