City of New Hampton in “Holding Pattern” on Hiring of New Police Chief

 The City of New Hampton is in a “holding pattern” in the process of hiring a new police chief.

In mid-April, former Police Chief Tim Pederson resigned amid controversy following an off-duty incident the City said did not meet the expectations of a police chief’s position. Officer Doug Eagan was named interim chief, but he himself resigned a little over a week later after almost 16 years with the NHPD. Officer Chad McGee then took over as interim chief on May 9th

A petition with over 600 signatures seeking to get Pederson reinstated was presented to the City Council during their May 6th meeting, but the Council and Mayor Steve Geerts said they would continue with their plans to hire a new chief. 

After interviewing two candidates, the City Council’s agenda for their regular meeting Monday (05.20) night included consideration to extend a police chief contract. However, Geerts says an “unforeseen situation” has put the hiring of their targeted candidate on hold. He adds that the pause does not involve legal matters or issues and they hope to finalize the hire during their next regular Council meeting on June 3rd. 

Even with the potential hiring of a new police chief, the NHPD will still be short one officer due to the departure of Eagan. Thus, Geerts says the City Council Monday night approved advertising for that position for 30 days.

Applications are available on the City website, www.newhamptonia.com.