Police Merit Commission opens lateral application list, schedules interviews

On Sept. 2, the Police Merit Commission voted unanimously to open a lateral application list for the Police Department and scheduled interviews to begin on the upcoming Sunday, Sept. 7. The commission also set an executive session for Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m. to continue hiring-related matters.

The action came after the chief’s report noted there were no current job openings and no existing lateral list; the commission approved a motion to open a lateral listing so the department can begin accepting lateral candidates. Joe Allen, a member of the Police Merit Commission, moved to open the list; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote with all members present voting in favor.

The commission directed Deputy Chief Summers to coordinate interview timing with the chief when the chief returns. Deputy Chief Summers told the commission, “We just wanna start the whole process.” The commission’s attorney confirmed a preparatory meeting for candidates on Sunday at 7:45 a.m. at the Police Department and said interviews will begin at 8:30 a.m.

At the start of the meeting the commission approved minutes for May, June and August by unanimous voice vote. Commissioners then handled scheduling: the commission confirmed an executive session for Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m.; one member noted they will be out of state that day and that Jacob (staff) will attend in their place.

No new policy or hiring decision beyond opening the lateral list and setting interview and meeting times was adopted at the session. The commission recorded no claims during the meeting and adjourned after the scheduled business was completed.