Town of Port Royal Starts Looking for New Police Chief
Located in beautiful South Carolina, the Town of Port Royal has now begun a nationwide search for a new police chief as it bids farewell to Chief Alan Beach. With nearly four decades of public service under his belt, Beach has been at the helm of the Port Royal Police Department for more than 10 years and his departure marks the end of an era.
A Legacy to Be Upheld
“Chief Beach has actually been involved with the town and in public service for almost 40 years. He’s actually been police chief for a little over ten years as well,” remarked Mayor Kevin Phillips in his recent comments. “As long as I’ve been in the town of Port Royal, I do not know Port Royal without Chief Beach at the head of the Police Department.”
This sentiment was echoed by Van Willis, Port Royal’s Town Manager, who also expressed his hopes for the future police chief. “Whoever we hire will be an appropriate candidate for the town of port royal,” Willis assured.
The Loftiness of the Search
According to Willis, the search for a new police chief was initiated as a nationwide effort. The process has successfully raked in about 40 applicants from diverse regions across the country. Out of these, six potential candidates have been shortlisted. Currently, the selection committee has narrowed down the list to three remarkable individuals, who will soon visit the town.
Engaging the Community
The final candidates are scheduled to attend a public council meeting next month where they will meet with the residents of Port Royal. Mayor Phillips emphasizes the importance of a strong bond between the community and their law enforcement. “We want them to know their law enforcement, we want them to feel comfortable with them,” said Phillips. The candidates’ visit marks an effort to foster this connection.
Transition in Leadership
The council meeting will take place on the 11th of September. Meanwhile, Chief Beach’s official retirement is dated September 6th. Though he will no longer be actively serving within the department, town leaders anticipate that his wisdom and guidance will continue to benefit the community.
“We will probably call on him from time to time to help us out when we need it,” expressed Willis.
Even as the town salutes the legacy of Chief Beach and prepares for his departure, there remains an undercurrent of excitement. The Town of Port Royal is poised on the edge of a new chapter in its law enforcement, one that bears the promise of great leadership just as the town has been accustomed to under Chief Beach.
