Chat with the Chiefs

What happens when you put Apex’s new Police Chief, his Deputy, and a room full of curious Lions in the same space? You get an evening of laughter, stories, and some surprisingly deep conversation about life in law enforcement and life in Apex. From California and Colorado to our own backyard, Chief Ryan Johansen and Deputy Chief Trevor Materasso shared how they got here, what drives them, and why “Chat with the Chiefs” might be the best way to really connect with your police department.

The Apex Lions Club had the pleasure of hosting two very special guests at our August 7, 2025 meeting. Both new Police Chief Ryan Johansen and Deputy Chief Trevor Materasso joined us for an introductory meeting and conversation. Between the two of them, they bring more than 50 years of law enforcement experience to our town, and we were eager to hear their stories.

Actually, tt wasn’t Chief Ryan’s first time with us. He reminded us that his real introduction to the Apex Lions was back in April at our Fish Fry, and that meal clearly made an impression. But this evening wasn’t about fried fish; it was about conversation. That’s exactly how Ryan and Trevor prefer to connect with the community. Rather than holding big, crowded town hall meetings where a few voices tend to dominate, they favor what they call “Chat with the Chiefs” sessions which are smaller gatherings where everyone gets a chance to ask questions and really talk.

Ryan’s path to Apex started a long way from here. Born and raised in California, he began his career patrolling some of the toughest neighborhoods in San Diego before eventually becoming Chief in San Bruno. But California, as he put it, had “changed dramatically” over his lifetime, and when the recruiter for Apex called, he asked what the town’s greatest need was. The answer: “We need a chief who will love on the cops.” That sealed it for him. Ryan says he’s here to fight for his officers, and his philosophy is simple. Police officers are exceptional people, but when they stumble (as every human being does), it’s often because the weight of the job has worn them down. The trauma they face on a monthly basis might be more than most of us encounter in a lifetime. Giving them space to exercise, eat well, and seek quality counseling isn’t a luxury; it’s necessary for them to live healthy, more “normal” lives, which in turn benefits the whole community.

Trevor’s story begins in Colorado, where he spent 18 years on the SWAT team. Like Ryan, he’s watched his home state change, and he was ready for a new chapter. The surprising spark that led him here? A Nicholas Sparks novel, Every Breath, set in Sunset Beach, North Carolina. It made him curious enough to visit, and soon enough, Apex became home. He speaks warmly about the dedication of our police officers and the chance to serve alongside them.

Our conversation that night was wide-ranging. At times serious and also quite lighthearted. We joked about the friendly rivalry with the fire department and teased that Apex might feel like “Mayberry” compared to where they’d worked before. But we also dug into thoughtful discussions about how police work differs in North Carolina as compared to both California and Colorado. Some of the comparisons were surprising, and all of them made us appreciate the unique approach our department is taking under new leadership.

When the evening wrapped up, we presented each of them with an Apex Lions coffee mug which is just a small token of our appreciation and something for them to remember us by. It felt good to walk away knowing our town’s police force is in the hands of leaders who genuinely care, not just about keeping us safe, but about the people who put on the uniform every day.

If you haven’t already, take a moment to read Chief Johansen’s own words in his Message from the Chief on the Town of Apex website. And if you ever get the chance to attend a “Chat with the Chiefs” event please go. Bring your questions, bring your curiosity, and get to know the people who protect our community.

At the Apex Lions Club, we love moments like this. They remind us why we serve, why we stay connected, and why we welcome anyone in Apex who wants to be part of building a stronger, more caring community. Please consider joining us at an upcoming meeting to learn more about us and join our cause!