Title
Approve and authorize advanced step placement for Nicole Davis at Step 7 of the Chief Deputy Sheriff salary range effective October 31, 2026, in accordance with Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) No. 98-394, Section A.1.11.5.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Approve and authorize advanced step placement for Nicole Davis at Step 7 of the Chief Deputy Sheriff salary range effective October 31, 2026, in accordance with Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) No. 98-394, Section A.1.11.5.
SUMMARY:
The Sheriff conducted a comprehensive review of qualified law enforcement professionals in making this selection for her executive management team. At the conclusion of her review process, she extended an offer of employment to Nicole Davis to become her next Chief Deputy Sheriff.
DISCUSSION:
Placement at an advanced step may be requested to compensate an employee, commensurate with their specialized knowledge, skill, years of relevant service, and recognition of their current compensation package. Pursuant to the provisions of Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) No. 98-394, Board of Supervisors’ approval is required to authorize placement above step 3 in Unit Y.
Acting Chief Deputy Nicole Davis has dedicated her life to public service for more than 24 years. Nicole began working as a Deputy Sheriff at the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office in 2002, after earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Sonoma State University and a Master of Science degree in Forensic Science from the University of New Haven.
Nicole started in the Corrections Operations Bureau (jail) where she worked a variety of assignments including Facility Training Officer, before transferring to the Enforcement Operations Bureau (patrol) in 2005. While on patrol she spent time in all three patrol stations across the county and was very involved in the Field Training Program, serving as a Field Training Office for over 8 years. Nicole also assisted in undercover narcotics investigations and marijuana eradication during her time assigned to patrol. She was one of the founding members of the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, which she continues to command to this day. She also was an original member of the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Memorial Committee and worked tirelessly to research history and fundraise for the Memorial Wall honoring the fallen members of the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
Nicole was promoted to Sergeant in 2017 and worked in both the Enforcement Operations Bureau and the Corrections Operation Bureau. As a Sergeant, she oversaw the Field Training Program on patrol. After being promoted to Commander in 2023, Nicole held many commands within the Sheriff’s Office to include Station Commander of all three patrol stations, Investigations Commander, and Professional Standards Unit Commander. Since July 2026, Nicole has held the rank of Acting Chief Deputy in the Administration Operations Bureau.
Nicole is a graduate from the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute and holds California POST Advanced and Management Certificates.
The Sheriff’s Office recently conducted a Sheriff’s Captain recruitment which Nicole elected to not pursue. Pursuing this opportunity, if selected, would have allowed Nicole to retain her merit system protections prior to retirement age. In determining the appropriate step for appointment for this at-will position, Nicole’s prior exceptional work history and longevity with the Monterey County Sheriff's Office were considered. In the promotion to Chief Deputy from Commander, Nicole will enter into an at-will position and lose her merit system protection prior to retirement age. Salary recommendations have been made in accordance with the County’s Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution (PPPR) sections A.1.11.1, and A.1.11.5. These sections provide for appointment at a higher salary step for reasons including credit for experience, avoiding injustice, and employee negotiation.
In conclusion, approval is requested to appoint Chief Deputy Nicole Davis at Step 7 of the County’s current Salary Schedule for the classification of Chief Deputy Sheriff.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
N/A
FINANCING:
This position is currently budgeted within the department at step 7 and there will be no increase in salary and benefits associated with these actions and no impact on the County General Fund.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
The proposed recommended actions demonstrate the County’s commitment by increasing public safety in the County of Monterey.
X Well-Being and Quality of Life
__Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
X Safe and Resilient Communities
__Diverse and Thriving Economy
X Dynamic Organization and Employer of Choice
Prepared by: Megan Miller, Senior Secretary-Confidential, ext 3908
Approved by: Tina M. Nieto, Sheriff, ext 3750
Attachment:
N/A