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Council approves rehiring of Police Chief Mark Sumter until incoming chief arrives
Summary
Council approved a contract extension to retain Chief Mark Sumter through early July 2025 to bridge leadership until Chief Rick Ford assumes the role; council described the arrangement as budget-neutral.
Mayor Perry asked council to approve rehiring Police Chief Mark Sumter under a temporary contract to retain him in the role until the incoming chief, Rick Ford, assumes the position in early July 2025.
Mayor Perry described the arrangement as part of a pension-drop program and told the council the rehiring is "budget neutral" over the long run and would help the borough by avoiding overlap. "I am asking council to motion a motion to approve rehiring Chief Mark Sumter under a new contract to expire when Chief Rick Ford assumes chief of police position in early July 2025," the mayor said.
A motion to approve the rehiring was made and seconded; Councilmember Terry Chambliss seconded the motion. The council voted by voice; the ayes carried and the motion passed. No amendments to the motion were recorded at the meeting.
Staff and council said the rehiring is administrative and intended to ensure continuity of command while the incoming chief completes onboarding. The council recorded no additional conditions or new budget appropriation at the time of the vote.
