Delaware City commission approves May police certified list as department nears full staffing

The Delaware City Civil Service Commission on May 7 approved the May 2025 police certified list, updating the roster of eligible police candidates and noting recent hires and withdrawals.

The vote, carried by a 3-0 roll call, accepted the list as presented by Police Chief Moore and staff. The certified list now contains 14 candidates after additions, withdrawals and rule-based removals from the April list.

Chief Moore told the commission the department continues to maintain eligible lists in the 14-to-20 range and that a candidate on the list received a conditional offer of employment earlier the same day. "Provided the last three steps of the process work out for her, next month she will be listed as being hired," Chief Moore said. He added the department is "within 4 openings of being fully staffed."

The commission noted the May update reflects: two new additions to the list; three withdrawals by candidates who sought or accepted other employment; one rolling off after a year; and two removals under civil service rule 5 H 4, which requires certification by the police or fire chief that a candidate was interviewed and will not be offered the position.

Chairman Ripka called for the motion to accept the May list; Vice Chair Santos moved and Mr. Hurley seconded. Roll-call votes recorded Mr. Hurley: yes; Vice Chair Santos: yes; Chairman Ripka: yes. The motion carried.

Commissioners and staff said the updated list will allow the department to begin backfilling open positions and assignments as vacancies arise. Chief Moore and commissioners discussed the department's goal to remain near a targeted staffing percentage and noted occasional highly scored candidates accept other offers before hire.

The commission adjourned after routine business and announcements.