Over the years based on some of what I've seen and heard about what goes on in the state of California, I'm coming to the conclusion that a number of those in that state in positions of power and authority are really and truly mentally disturbed. The word "chief" appears to have French origins-
[yourcentralvalley.com]california/san-francisco-schools-ban-chief-from-job-titles/

[etymonline.com]

Now, when a known left-leaning source like the Washington Post even says that there is nothing wrong with using that word, you know the individuals behind trying to curb usage of the word chief are being asinine, to put it mildly...
[washingtonpost.com]

With all the genuine problems plaguing that state (widespread homelessness comes to mind), one would rationally think their priorities should be attending to those matters first, and not worry so much about labels and job titles of the sort.