Mayor Goodwin appoints new Chief of Police for Manchester

By Sherry Larson

People’s Defender

The Manchester Council held a special meeting on Thursday, June 29. All members were present except Gidget Applegate, who was excused. There were two agenda items.

The first new business was the consideration for advertising of a new Chief of Police. There was discussion amongst members about what papers the advertisement had been placed. Councilman Troy Jolly noted that the ad ran in the Peebles Messenger and asked if it ran in the Police Chief’s Association. Michelle Thompson, Village Clerk, reported it was on the Association’s website. Jolly stated that the advertisement needed to be in general circulation newspapers, not just a free paper with ads. Solicitor Tony Baker concurred.

The discussion ensued, and Mayor B.J. Goodwin said, “Seeing that no one is beating down the doors to come here. I’m going to go ahead and make an appointment tonight of the police chief.” She then announced the appointment of Dakotah Brown.

Solicitor Baker explained to the Council, “This appointment is basically subject to a six-month probationary period. At the end of the period, the Council can vote for permanent hire or termination. You can continue to accept resumes.”

Goodwin said that Brown would run the department, and he was aware of when most of the crime was occurring. Jolly piggybacked with an explanation that the budget allows 60 hours a week – 40 for a police chief and 20 for a part-time deputy.

Councilman Dennis Barnd communicated that he felt the advertising for a police chief had yet to be done according to the Council’s May vote and directive. He also read an email exchange between himself and Councilwoman Applegate, as there was confusion about who had called the special meeting. His concern lies in the way business is conducted. There was a bit of a verbal squabble, and Goodwin pounded her gavel for order. Jolly interjected that he was going to “withdraw the advertising.” Jolly motioned to withdraw from advertising the position, and Councilwoman Christine Henderson seconded the motion. All were in favor except Barnd, and the motion carried. The ad will run its course on the Police Chief’s Association website.

The second and final item on the agenda was the Disposition of the Adams County Landbank. Solicitor Baker presented a list of properties for the Council’s knowledge, discussion, and consideration.

To conclude the meeting, Mayor Goodwin introduced the new Chief of Police, Dakotah Brown, to attendees. Brown said that he could start his new position on Monday, July 2. He said, “I can start making calls and hit the ground running.” Once Brown finds a cruiser, the Council will call a special meeting to approve.

Henderson made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Jolly. The meeting adjourned at 6:48 p.m.