The Hampden Selectboard convened on October 2, 2025, to conduct interviews for the town's new police chief, a pivotal role that has seen only six predecessors in the town's 150-year history. With three candidates in the running, the board allocated 30 minutes for each interview, ensuring a structured process by asking the same set of questions to all candidates.

The meeting, which was broadcast over Zoom, emphasized transparency and community involvement. The candidates were sequestered to maintain the integrity of the interview process, with board members relying on an honor system to prevent any candidate from gaining an unfair advantage by watching the proceedings.

During the meeting, board members discussed and refined the interview questions, ultimately narrowing them down to eight. This collaborative effort aimed to ensure that the questions were relevant and comprehensive, reflecting the community's needs and expectations for its new chief. The board expressed the importance of selecting a candidate who could effectively address the challenges facing the police department, particularly in light of recent events that have heightened community concerns about safety and law enforcement.

Looking ahead, the Selectboard plans to deliberate on the candidates' responses and make a decision at their next meeting on Monday. This decision is crucial not only for the future of the police department but also for the broader community, as the new chief will play a significant role in shaping public safety policies and fostering trust between law enforcement and residents.

In addition to the chief selection, the board briefly touched on upcoming meetings and agenda items, including a public hearing for a liquor license transfer. The Selectboard's proactive approach in addressing these matters reflects their commitment to transparency and community engagement, ensuring that residents are informed and involved in local governance.