Minutes
Selectmen’s Work Session
November 28, 2007
8:07 AM Chair Bock opened the meeting.
Members Present: Peter Bock, Mary Bonser and Town Administrator Charles Brown.
Others: Police Chief Philip English.
Mr. Bock stated the Board had asked for this meeting with Chief English to discuss any suggestions he has regarding the upcoming open Chief’s position. Chief English stated he feels the position can be filled from within the department. He feels Sergeant Foss has the knowledge and experience to easily fill the position. Chief English informed the Board that there are no statutory qualifications defined for Chiefs of Police, other than being a police officer certified by the NH Police Standards and Training Council (PSTC). Qualifications for the new Chief are up to the Board. Small towns are much different than large cities or towns; therefore qualifications of a Chief are different as well. He recommended that any individual considered have a minimum of 10 years in law enforcement with 5 plus years as a supervisor,
possibly a degree or equivalent experience. When asked about possible changes, Chief English stated the new Chief should make recommendations for changes within the department. Anyone hired from outside the department should have a full background check done. If someone is hired from within, it is up to the Board. If the individual signs a waiver, the Board may be able review personnel files from PSTC.
Mr. Bock asked how the surrounding Towns have replaced Chiefs. Chief English stated each town may use a different process, it can have a lot to do with existing department staffing or some towns may have written policy governing such matters. Mr. Bock then asked the Chief how the department is viewed within Town. Chief English stated that the department has a good rapport with the community. Mr. Bock asked how might the department look in 10 years. Chief English expressed concern about the new generation and their values and expectations in regard to pursuing a law enforcement career. Overall, training must be maintained and the Chief feels it can be upgraded. The Chief expects the department will expand in years to come. He also feels the pay scale is low and benefits could be better. They could include in dental plan,
which would be an incentive for younger officers with families. He feels the equipment is good and feels Tazers will be an advantage for officers and their safety. The Chief also stated that the LGC pay scales are not current. Mr. Bock asked about grant writing skills needed by a Chief. That is something that can be learned and there are many resources available. The Chief said that the cars could use video systems in them. We previously had VCR’s a number of years ago, along with audio. New technology now is digital. There may be grants available for this equipment. The Board asked about any current outstanding items that will need to be addressed?
The Town will need input from USA Springs and any other businesses as to what services will be needed. Nottingham has a number of roads that are used as a cut through, and present potential traffic issues. Auburn District Court is also a problem. The Board asked if there was regular interaction with the surrounding towns. The Chief answered that the County Chiefs meet once a month and there is communication between towns. Mr. Bock asked how the Chief feels the department will operate in the next 3-5 years. Again, the Chief feels that would be better answered by the new Chief. The Chief stated the present 12 weeks of training at the Police Academy is not enough for new officers. An additional two to four weeks would be helpful. Current officers are required to attend 8 hours of in service training per year. Classes are
limited as to what is available. The Chief does not foresee a need for an officer at the Elementary School. Overall, there are many things out of our control but we are not in bad shape. As with all things, there is room for improvement. The Chief went on to explain that he believes an officer starting pay in the $ 40,000 range would be a big factor in retention. Small towns are restricted when comes to advancement. The Chief sees no change in the Administrative Assistant position in the department. He feels the position should be on the State retirement system. Any new hire in that position would require a full background check. The Chief stated the new facility is working well. There is a need for a back-up generator for communications in the event of an emergency. He suggested making some improvements for parking as well as additional lighting in the back of the station. As far as security goes, he feels color cameras should be added in 2009. Mr. Bock stated the transition to
the new Chief should be as organized as possible and thanked the Chief for the organization of the department. Mr. Bock & Mr. Brown will speak to the department members on December 6th in regard to insurance benefit changes. The Chief concluded by stating he feels Gunnar Foss is the best candidate to fill the Chief’s position. The Chief then left the meeting. The Board took a short break.
The Board continued to discuss the process for hiring a new Chief. Some of the questions asked were, should any outside agency interview the candidate, are there any specific education requirements or standards for being a Police Chief? If required, how long should an acting Chief serve? Even if the Board hires an individual from within, should there be an application and interview process. Should any candidate considered be asked to sign a waiver in order for the Board to review personnel files from the State. Mr. Brown will contact surrounding Towns to see what their experiences they have had hiring from within the department and any other helpful information.
Having no further business,
9:58 AM Motion: Bonser, second Bock to adjourn.
Vote: 3-0 in favor.
Respectfully Submitted,
Charles A. Brown
Approved as corrected
1/7/08
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