Police Chief Search Committee Holding Second Public Meeting Thursday
Council is seeking public input from residents on what they're looking for in a new chief of police.
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Norristown's search for a new police chief continues with the second of two public meetings to include residents in the search process.
The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery County Human Services Center at 1430 DeKalb Street (the old Sacred Heart Hospital).
Council is looking for input on what sort of professional experience, training and potential law enforcement focus the public would like to see in a new chief of police. The discussion will be moderated and the information gathered will be shared with SafeCity Solutions, the Reading-based search firm contracted to conduct the search.
The first meeting was held on March 7 at the Montgomery County-Norristown Public Library and was attended by only a handful of residents.
"I'm very concerned about the low turnout tonight given the importance of the search process is to the community," Councilman Marlon Millner said of last Thursday's meeting. "I hope the next meeting at the Human Services building will be full."
Mohandus Frieri
8:20 am on Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Exercise in stupidity. Adds to the cost of recruitment and delays the hiring. What do you think they want? How about to stem the tide of murders and drug trafficking in Norristown? You're still more than six months away from a hire. Tick Tock.
Sally19401
11:19 am on Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Yes, this input should have been done months ago. 2 days ago was the deadline for the applications. Do they have a time table for the next steps? Nothing else has been well planned.
growyourown
4:26 pm on Wednesday, March 13, 2013
lol what a joke this has become. last big time recruitment was for a public safety director he was going to solve all the problems. well he tried and he was handcuffed by council at every turn he was not able to change things because council didnt want change so how can any of this be taken serious when the hire will report to an inept council who has dropped the ball at every turn. and besides a true professional doesnt want to be a puppet and that is what council wants
Mary Ellen Digregorio
6:03 pm on Wednesday, March 13, 2013
I like for the Chief of Police to have a College Degree like every other Town's Chief of Police does......
Sally19401
1:16 pm on Thursday, March 14, 2013
Here are the requirements per the posting on the web:
Min Education: H.S. Diploma/Equivalent
Min Experience: Over 10 Years The successful candidate will possess a demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in modern police operational and administrative practices, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to create and implement a strategy of community policing and crime reduction.
The Chief will be expected to advance the legitimacy and perception of the police by advocating actions that are supported by the community. The Chief of Police is also expected to maintain a visible presence within neighborhoods and business districts. The ability to work cooperatively with local and county elected officials, municipal administration, citizens and civic leaders is required.
Candidates must have served at least 15 years as a certified police officer, and possess a minimum of 7 years of recent administrative and supervisory experience A minimum of a bachelor’s degree and a record of continuing career education and development that includes graduation from the FBI National Academy or similar executive level law enforcement training are preferred. A combination of education, training, and experience that closely meets the needs of the Municipality will be considered. ” Norristown is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and minorities and women are encouraged to apply.