Baker becomes city’s first woman to lead department
WAYZATA — With a standing-room-only crowd at City Hall and a strong show of support from city leadership, Jamie Baker was formally sworn in as Wayzata’s new Police Chief, becoming the first woman to hold the post in the city’s history.
Baker officially assumed the role on June 1, after serving as interim chief since November 2024 and as part of the department’s leadership team for over three years. The swearing-in ceremony was led by City Manager Jeff Dahl and Mayor Andrew Mullin during Tuesday night’s council meeting.
“It’s perhaps my greatest honor to administer this oath,” said Dahl, who highlighted Baker’s record of service, from her start in Roseville to her years of community-building in Wayzata and Long Lake. “She leads with compassion, responsiveness, professionalism, and a clear focus on keeping people safe.”
Before coming to Wayzata, Baker spent over two decades with the Roseville Police Department, serving in multiple roles including field training officer, detective specializing in family violence and sex crimes, and patrol sergeant in charge of the crime scene team and K9 unit. Dahl noted her wide-ranging experience and praised her ability to lead during crisis, recruit top-tier officers during a challenging hiring climate, and foster trust within the department.
“Don’t let her calm demeanor fool you—she’s tough,” Dahl said, smiling. “She has a black belt in karate. I certainly don’t mess with her.”
Baker’s appointment was met with warm applause, including from retired Chief Mark Schultz, her husband Mike, and members of the broader law enforcement community.
A Moment of Pride and Gratitude
After taking the oath, Chief Baker offered brief but heartfelt remarks, expressing appreciation for the support she’s received.
“This is a moment of pride, gratitude, and renewed purpose,” Baker said. “Working alongside the members of the police department, our elected officials, city leaders, and most importantly, the community we serve—to continue building on what makes Wayzata so special—means everything to me.”
Mayor Mullin also voiced his confidence in Baker’s leadership, calling her appointment “an exciting step forward for our city and for public safety.”
As Wayzata’s seventh chief—and its first woman to lead the department—Chief Baker steps into a role shaped by both legacy and progress. City leaders underscored their excitement to continue that legacy with her at the helm.
