For the week of October 9 - 15, 2002

Job well done

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If there was a secret to the longevity of Ketchum Police Chief Cal Nevland through a succession of mayors and city councils, it was his attitude about his job—provide good service and security for the community.

That may sound pretty bland as a credo. But it worked for Nevland (and Ketchum) in his 22 years as chief (and 30 years on the force). It might well be his legacy when he retires ands leaves his post on Nov. 30 and should be a mandate for his successor.

It was especially important during two crucial showdowns in city hall when his job and judgment were at stake.

Because of his popularity and the loyalty of the community, Chief Nevland survived when several councilman—including today’s Mayor Ed Simon—were recalled in 1992 when they attempted to fire Nevland. He prevailed again this year when Mayor Simon was rebuked by fellow council members when he attempted to supercede Chief Nevland’s authority to pick an assistant chief.

So, in finding a successor to Chief Nevland, Mayor Simon and the council should seek a person who will dedicate his service to the community and not to the whims of city hall councils that come and go.

Along with that goal, the mayor and council also need to immediately review the pay scale of Ketchum police, who are woefully behind comparable communities and who increasingly find it difficult to deal with the Wood River Valley’s high living costs.

 

 

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