BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The chief of the Avenal Police Department has been appointed to take on a new job in Kern County.

A vote on Wednesday by the Arvin City Council appointed Cecilio Velasco as the new chief of the Arvin Police Department. Their police chief position had been vacant for almost a year.

Velasco was appointed to the role of chief of Avenal Police in February 2024. Officials say he has more than 21 years of law enforcement experience.

Before serving as the Avenal police chief, Velasco served as commander and acting chief with the Delano Police Department. He was with the department for about 10 years and served as sergeant, detective and police officer, officials said.

The Arvin City Council agenda described Chief Velasco as someone who “has earned a reputation as a collaborative leader who values partnerships with employees, residents, businesses, neighboring law enforcement agencies, and regional public safety organizations.”

The two-year contract to lead Arvin’s Police Department comes with a $141,564.80 annual base salary, according to council documents.