SMART sets up law enforcement division, names Welch police chief

Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) this month established a dedicated law enforcement division and appointed Jennifer Welch chief of police.

Currently security manager for the agency, Welch will take up her new role Jan. 3. SMART was able to create the position following passage of a California Senate bill in October, according to a report in the Petaluma Argus-Courier.

As SMART's police chief, Welch will function as a liaison for communication with the area's other law enforcement agencies.

Eleven law enforcement entities, 11 fire departments and two district attorney offices operate along SMART's 70-mile corridor.

The size of SMART's own law enforcement operation will depend on demand once service starts late next year, the Argus-Courier said.