For those unable to attend, (like former police chief and candidate for mayor, Mike Reaves), last night’s introduction to the police department went off very well. Everyone in the city is optimistic about a new cooperative relationship with the PD and Chief Mark Dannels asserted that all his officers have signed contracts that they will be professional, assessable and approachable.
Dannels is working towards having the department accredited and is instituting the necessary procedures to bring that about. Additionally, new cameras and recording devices are being installed in all patrol cars in an effort to, amongst other things, herald a new era of accountability regarding the actions of each officer. Hopefully, no more serious injuries to the public will take place and if they do, there will be an audio if not also a video recording of the event.
The chief has definitely taken the bull by the horns and is implementing many positive and progressive empowerment tools for both citizen and officer. There is also a new community service/parking enforcement officer who will attempt to resolve neighborhood disputes. (I could say a lot on that topic… if neighbors would just mind their own business…).
The officers themselves appear to be much happier and relaxed and I would say proud of their positions now. Here’s wishing this new chapter all the very best!!!
Yes, there was a resounding bang when voters slammed the door on the Reaves Team.
Too bad too many people voted for incumbents rather than trying to move the city forward. We could have had three new faces instead of ‘Tales from the Crypt’
the voters in Coquille support their mayor thru the mudslinging etc. the true leader emerges. headmower@gmail.com steve farley 11/05/08
Thank you Steve Farley for your comments. Real leaders are not in it for revenge or mudslinging, real leaders guide and serve their community… Steve is clearly open to learning and raising the bar. Few, certainly not me, believe the same can be said for our former police chief.
For all of you in Coquille, Oregon. I support Steve Briitton 100%. He is leadership material no matter what Mike Reeves digs up from 30 yrs ago. Britton is fair, honest and has many exellent attibrutes. This politcal move by Reeves is so underhanded! Go get em Britton. Steve Farley headmower@gmail.co
A cornered rat will bite like hell.
Hopefully, although it is going to take a long time to undo the damage done by Reaves and O’Connor. Not only that but there is a nasty faction of the community that have been allowed to engage in mean spirited gossip without consequence or scolding by the city at large.
There is something wrong when that kind of behavior is condoned so readily, it favors a dark side… that is not very attractive or hospitable.
YEA!!!!!!!!!
Maybe, someday in the near future, Coquille will once again be a community where we can relax and enjoy our lives!