Police Chief Rick Batson has announced his intent to retire at the close of business on January 7.
In a letter to Interim City Manager Tom Palmer on November 25, Batson expressed his intent and thanked Palmer for the kindness and consideration expressed during his tenure as chief.
Batson began serving as police chief in May of 2003 and served as both police chief and city manager from May of 2007 to late October.
“I’ve enjoyed my time as police chief here. The city has a very fine police department with people dedicated to public service. I regret leaving, but it’s time to retire,” said Batson, who has been in police work for nearly 40 years.
“I hope my presence has helped the city in some way in accomplishing its goals,” he said.
The city council voted in October to revert to the previous practice of having both a full time police chief and city manager. The council subsequently hired Palmer, who retired from the position of city manager in 2007, to serve as interim city manager. The council is currently seeking applications for the position.
