The Gateway to L.A. PBID has announced the hiring of former California Highway Patrol Commander Calvin Beard to oversee the area’s security and maintenance as Director of Operations. Beard replaces Jim Sakalis, who is retiring after more than 14 years in the post.
“We are excited to bring in someone with Calvin’s extensive knowledge and experience in law enforcement,” said Executive Director Laurie Hughes. “Calvin already has relationships with many of the law enforcement agencies with whom we work, and we know he will be an asset to the Gateway to L.A. team.”
Beard is coming out of retirement to take the position because he said he likes the area and has an affinity for business improvement districts since his wife, Raquel, is the executive director of the Central City East Association.
“I feel like I’ve been in the BID world for many, many years,” said Beard, who added that his goal is to continue the outstanding work that has been done in the Gateway area. “I’d like to find new and more creative ways to cultivate and expand the BID operations and work closely with all of our stakeholders, ensuring that all security and maintenance concerns are addressed.”
Beard retired as Central Los Angeles Area Commander for CHP in 2012, after serving more than 10 years in that post. He previously served as Lieutenant (Field Operations Officer) for CHP’s South Los Angeles Area from 1995 to 2002. Beard began his law enforcement career with the California State Police, where he served in various capacities from 1983 to 1995.
Among Beard’s significant assignments was his Career Executive Appointment to State Police Commander by then Governor Pet Wilson. Beard coordinating and supervised security operations for California Governor Pete Wilson’s travel to Mexico City, and eight states and 17 cities throughout Western Asia in 1993. He also coordinated and supervised security operations for Wilson’s 1993-1994 re-election campaign and inaugural ceremony.
