City manager names Joe Trigg interim police chief starting March 2; public voices mixed views on policing and department response

City Manager announced on Jan. 27 that Deputy Chief Joe Trigg will step into the interim chief role effective March 2; the manager praised department leadership and said the organization has staff capable of maintaining continuity.

Public comment that followed reflected a range of opinions about policing. Johnny Brand told the commission he strongly supports an internal candidate and praised Trigg as a ‘‘man of character’’ with decades of service. Several commissioners expressed thanks to outgoing Chief Winstrom and welcomed Trigg in the interim role.

Conversely, Veronica Griffin — a 45‑year city resident — described repeated alleged break‑ins at her home in 2025, said she filed multiple police reports and said follow‑up by officers was insufficient. Griffin told the commission officers called in a mental‑health professional to the scene and that subsequent visits produced little investigation; the mayor encouraged her to speak with department leadership after the meeting.

The city manager said Trigg would begin March 2 and expressed confidence in department leadership during the transition. Commissioners noted community conversations, upcoming budget work and planned community engagement events as part of policing discussions.

Next steps: Trigg’s interim appointment takes effect March 2. Residents with police‑related concerns were directed to department leadership and invited to follow up with staff.