A recommendation to hire Michael Frye as Minot’s next police chief will be considered by the Minot City Council tonight.

City Manager Harold Stewart is recommending Frye, but he also is suggesting the council consider Dale Plessas, acting police chief, as deputy chief.

“My recommendation is to utilize the strengths of both candidates and hire Mr. Frye as police chief, upgrade one of the existing captain positions to Deputy Chief, and promote Capt. Plessas to Deputy Chief. I strongly believe the best solution for the department is both Frye and Plessas working together to lead the department forward,” Stewart stated in a memo to the council.

Three candidates, including Frye and Plessas, were interviewed for the position. They also met with officers in the department as well as with the public. Feedback in both instances indicated equal support for both Frye and Plessas, Stewart stated.

“As such the decision hinges on supporting the local candidate who has been on the department, or bringing in an outside candidate who provides a fresh perspective,” Stewart wrote in the memo.

Frye retired as a lieutenant with the City of Minneapolis Police Department in 2024 and currently serves as chief of police at Bismarck State College. Plessas has had a 23-year career with the Minot Police Department.

The city council will take up the recommendation at tonight’s meeting, which begins at 5:30 p.m.