Bartonville officials change how town police chief is appointed

At its Sept. 30 meeting, the Bartonville Town Council voted to change who appoints the police chief, putting the power under its own purview.

The details

Bartonville Mayor Jacyln Carrington said in an emailed statement that state law provides for municipal administrative officials, such as the town secretary, the town administrator and police chief to be appointed by the Town Council.

“State law also provides for modifications to that process by town ordinance enacted by the Town Council,” Carrington said. “Years ago, the Town Council exercised its discretion and decided to move the appointment of the chief of police to the town administrator.”

At its last meeting, the Town Council reversed course and put the police chief appointment back under its purview, consistent with state law. Town administrator Thad Chambers was not available for comment at time of publication.

Quote of note

Bartonville Police Chief Kirk Riggs said the adjustment aligns the town with many other municipalities that follow a similar process.

“From my perspective, this change doesn’t impact how I approach my role or my commitment to serving the community,” Riggs said in an emailed statement. “My focus remains the same: ensuring the safety and well-being of Bartonville’s residents.”