The police chief typically reports to the mayor or city manager, depending on the structure of the local government. This reporting relationship ensures that law enforcement aligns with the broader goals and policies of the city or municipality. In summary, the police chief's reporting structure is an important aspect of local governance. The chief usually answers to the mayor or city manager, which helps maintain alignment between law enforcement activities and the overall objectives of the local government. This relationship is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the community.