Los Angeles police commissioners on Tuesday began the process of replacing LAPD Chief William Bratton, saying they want to hold an open selection with extensive public involvement.

"I think we ought to consider holding special Police Commission hearings to allow the public to give their input on what they want to see in the next chief," commission President John Mack said.

The city Personnel Department will give a formal presentation on the process required under the City Charter.

Under the charter, the Personnel Department screens applicants and submits six candidates to the Police Commission. The commission narrows the field to three candidates to submit to Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who makes the final decision.

Mack and Commissioner Alan Skobin also said they did not believe the city needs to hire an outside firm to recruit candidates.

"I think with all the attention Bratton's resignation has received that the candidates we would be interested in are aware there's an opening," Skobin said. "I don't think we need the expense of hiring a recruiting firm."

Mack agreed, saying the conditions in the city are different from when Bratton was hired.

"I think we have a better idea of the type of person we are looking for," Mack said. "There will be no shortage of candidates."

Bratton announced last week he is leaving Oct. 31 to join a new firm being created with former federal monitor Michael Cherkasky that will seek federal grants to work with emerging democracies.

City officials believe that is enough time to find a permanent successor before Bratton leaves the post.