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Mayor Praises Retiring Police Chief and MUC Superintendent; Interim Police Chief Named
Summary
Mayor Scott James thanked outgoing Police Chief Mark Gilbert and MUC Superintendent Kenny Akins for long service; Philip Bassett will serve as interim police chief pending permanent appointment.
Mayor Scott James recognized recent retirements of two longtime municipal leaders and announced an interim replacement for the police chief.
On the podcast, James praised outgoing Police Chief Mark Gilbert for more than 30 years of service and said “he's done it 30 plus years. It does take a toll.” James announced that Philip Bassett will serve as interim police chief and that, if the interim assignment “works out, over a period of time, then I'll probably put him in as full time.”
James also recognized the retirement of Kenny Akins, superintendent of the MUC, who served roughly 26 years and advanced from meter reader to superintendent; James cited Akins as an example of steady career advancement.
Why it matters: leadership changes in the police department and municipal utilities commission affect operations and succession planning; the mayor framed both retirements as significant contributions to the community.
Ending: James offered thanks to both retirees and said the city will monitor the interim chief's performance before considering a permanent appointment.
