The Atwater City Council and City Manager Waterman are happy to announce the promotion of one of its own to the rank of Lieutenant. After successfully completing an independent, thorough, and rigorous evaluation process, the City of Atwater will promote Sergeant Bill Novetzke to the rank of Police Lieutenant, with a ceremonial swearing in to be held at a Special City Council meeting on Monday, November 15, 2021.
Lt. Novetzke is currently serving his 21st year in Law Enforcement, working for both the Modesto Police Department and SUSD Police Departments, before joining the Atwater Police Department in 2005, where he has served as SRO, FTO, and was promoted to the ranks of Corporal and Sergeant.
Lt. Novetzke has also served in the following assignments throughout his career at the Atwater Police Department: POST Training Manager, FTO Coordinator, supervised Patrol, SRO, Traffic, Dispatch and other administrative duties.
Bill earned his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Management from Union Institute and University and is a Graduate of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute Class #441, where he received his POST Supervisory Certificate.
A second in command for the Atwater Police Department has been a priority of the City Council’s strategic plan and the City Council authorized the Lieutenant position with the FY 21‑22 budget as part of the Atwater Police Department’s reorganization.
Chief Salvador congratulates Lt. Novetzke on his promotion and is looking forward to assisting in acclimating and preparing Bill for the new Lieutenant position through an extensive training program.