PORT ORCHARD — The search by the city for a new police chief has narrowed the field of 18 applicants to just five, Mayor Rob Putaansuu said Thursday.

The five finalists — who have not yet been identified by the mayor — will take part in a public forum that will involve members of the Port Orchard City Council and other community members. They will gather at City Hall’s Council Chambers, 216 Prospect St. at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27.

Putaansuu said the finalists’ names will be made public early next week. He did disclose that the five individuals advancing to the finalist stage “are outstanding” candidates.

He said after a choice has been identified, that person will need to go through security clearance steps and a background check before a contract is finalized. When that’s accomplished, the mayor said it’s expected another two weeks or so will pass when the selected candidate gives notice at their current location.