ALBANY, N.Y. — Albany's top cop-to-be is one step closer to taking office.

Eric Hawkins was tapped by Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan to take over for retired Chief Robert Sears.

A Common Council meeting Monday night pushed that appointee another step forward.

The council member says they plan to fast track Hawkins with a special meeting.

"Given the recent acts of violence in our city, people are really concerned and want to make sure we have someone in that role who will hit the ground running,” Dorcey Applyrs (D) said.

The next step is a public safety hearing, where members of the council will interview Hawkins and get public input.