Kittery starts police chief search

July 27, 2011

Strong plans to retire at the end of the year

KITTERY, Maine — More than 52 people from around the country have applied to become the town's next police chief.

Officials last week began advertising to replace retiring Police Chief Edward Strong. Strong, who has been with the department for 33 years, gave notice earlier this year that he will retire in December.

The application deadline is Friday, Aug. 5, Town Manager Jon Carter said.

The town has contracted with Eaton Peabody Consulting Group of Portland to conduct the search and review applications.

According to the advertisement placed locally, as well as in national publications, the chief "must bring integrity and a proven record of leadership to the position, including demonstrated skill in personnel management, community policing, budgeting, investigation and community relations."

Shortly after Strong announced his retirement, Lt. Russell French returned to the department from a similar position at the Kennebunk Police Department. Neither man at the time tied the decision to Strong's retirement. Carter also made clear that a national search would be conducted.

According to Carter, after Aug. 5, the consultant will present the town with a list of qualified applicants.

A police chief review team, which is currently being put together, will review the applicants and conduct the interviews. The two town councilors on the team are George Dow and Jeff Thomson. Citizens will also be on the team.

The process is expected to take much of the fall, Carter said.

Courtesy of Seacoastonline.com

By Deborah Mcdermott