WASHOUGAL — The Washougal Police Department will ring in the new year with a new leader.
Washougal Chief Wendi Steinbronn announced her retirement, effective Dec. 31. She will be succeeded by Capt. Zane Freschette, according to Washougal City Manager David Scott.
“I have decided to retire after many fulfilling years in law enforcement,” Steinbronn said. “I have cherished my time here and will deeply miss our incredible team, and I am immensely proud of our achievements.”
The city hired Steinbronn to replace Ron Mitchell as chief in 2019. For the previous 25 years, she had worked for the Portland Police Bureau, most recently as commander of the bureau’s North Precinct.
During her tenure in Washougal, Steinbronn helped the agency complete an accreditation program from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs that certifies the department is operating under best practices and standards for law enforcement.
She also oversaw the implementation of body-worn camera and drone programs; established National Night Out as an annual city event; and completed a strategic operational review that “has charted the department’s path forward,” according to the city.
“We are grateful for Chief Steinbronn’s outstanding service and leadership throughout her tenure,” Scott said. “We wish her and her husband the best.”
Steinbronn’s husband is a retired Portland police officer.
Freschette to lead
Freschette has worked for the Washougal police for nearly two decades.
He has demonstrated “exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of community policing,” according to the city.
“I am deeply honored to step into the role of Washougal’s next chief of police,” he said. “I am eager to collaborate with Chief Steinbronn during our remaining time together and build upon her legacy as we move the department forward.”
Freschette graduated from the FBI National Academy earlier this year, the first officer in department history to complete the prestigious program for active law enforcement personnel.
“I have every confidence that he will successfully lead the team … as they serve our community into the future,” Scott said.
Steinbronn said she is delighted to hear Freschette will succeed her.
“He is a remarkable leader with an unwavering commitment to our mission. I have learned as much from him as I hope he has learned from me,” she said.
“I am forever grateful for the trust placed in me by the city and community to guide the Washougal Police Department toward a secure and vibrant future.”
