After interviewing an internal candidate from the Bangor Police Department to replace retiring Chief Don Winslow, city leaders have decided to expand the search, City Manager Edward Barrett announced Tuesday. “We think it’s appropriate to have a broader field to choose from before choosing our next chief,” he said. Winslow, who started as a patrolman in 1979 and became chief in 1998, is retiring at the end of February. Lt. Ron Gastia confirmed last week that he applied for the job. “He’s a strong candidate” and will be among the finalists for the position, Barrett said. Applicants recommended by the hiring panel, composed of Barrett, Assistant City Manager Robert Farrar and an unidentified Maine police chief, will be presented to the City Council for final approval. The city is advertising the position, and will accept applications until Feb. 23. Those interested may call Barrett at 992-4205.