The Richmond City Council officially wants Police Chief Rodney Monroe to stay put.

With Monroe one of three finalists to become police chief of Charlotte, N.C., council members voted unanimously last night to urge him to remain chief in Richmond.

The resolution, of which all council members were co-patrons, praises Monroe for efforts producing the city's lowest crime rate in 26 years. The resolution also says the council encourages him to remain in Richmond and "to lead the city in its efforts to reduce crime, improve its Department of Police, and make the city of Richmond safer for all citizens, visitors, churches and businesses."

"The man walks on water as far as I'm concerned," Councilman E. Martin Jewell said, citing the Police Department's success in eliminating drug hot spots in his district.

Councilwoman Reva M. Trammell said crime is down across the city and that the Police Department enjoys an improved relationship with residents. "He's been a great chief," she said.

Last week, Mayor L. Douglas Wilder and the City Council praised Monroe but said each other would be to blame if he left Richmond after three years as chief. Last night, Councilman Chris A. Hilbert said the council and the mayor may have differences about many issues but that they're in complete agreement in support of Monroe.

Monroe and the other candidates for police chief in Charlotte are scheduled to attend a public reception and forum tonight. Charlotte plans to name a new police chief before June 1. -- Will Jones