×

Goshen police chief looks to keep trained staff

Recommends training reimbursement policy for department officers

GOSHEN TOWNSHIP–The Goshen Police District could have a training reimbursement agreement with its officers.

According to unofficial minutes from the trustees meeting this week provided by Fiscal Officer Tom Knoedler, Chief Steve McDaniel requested trustees approve a new training reimbursement policy for officers seeking training while employed by the department. He said officers receive the training and then leave the department, taking with them the knowledge learned while the township has paid for the training.

McDaniel suggested a policy that would require the officer to pay for 100 percent of the training cost if he or she leaves within six months of receiving the training and 75 percent between six and 12 months.

The trustees approved the policy pending approval by the township’s attorney who created the current police policy book.

Also at the meeting, trustee Chair Bob McCracken suggested a change in the township’s policy manual regarding funeral leaves and sick time and further suggested that all employees be subjected to random drug tests. He explained that instituting the drug testing will decrease insurance rates.

In other business, the trustees accepted the resignations of part-time police officers Sean Brindack and Michael Wirkner and hired Michael Sherry as a part-time officer, as well as purchased a 2018 Ford Interceptor sedan cruiser at a cost of $23,134 from Sarchione Ford

The trustees also discussed the replacement of the sidewalk in front of the main entrance door at the administration building. The concrete has risen and cracked due to frost, causing a walking hazard.

McCracken suggested installing a 4-inch pipe from the downspounts under the sidewalk, connecting to the drainage pipe along state Route 165 before the new cement is poured. Trustees Teresa Stratton agreed to obtain estimated for the cement replacement and Roads Foreman Randy Smith said he will check with the state for permission to connect to the drain pipe at the road.

The Damascus Fire Department is hosting a “Night at the Races” at 6 p.m. April 7 at Boneshakers in Salem to help raised funds for a $35,000 heart monitor for the department’s ambulance. Tickets cost $15 from any department member.

A road inspection special meeting will be held at 1 p.m. on April 9.

The next regular meeting will be held at 7 p.m.April 9 at the administration building.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.39/week.

Subscribe Today