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Whiteland council defers HR reorganization; chief announces promotions; council backs stopping door‑hanger reminders
Summary
Council continued discussion of moving HR under the town manager for further review, received a police staffing update announcing a promotion and active recruitments, and agreed to stop routine door‑hanger utility reminders for customers two months delinquent, relying instead on mailed notices and existing reconnection rules.
The council considered several administrative matters under "other business." No final vote was taken on an HR reorganization; the council agreed to continue discussion at the next meeting. Town manager and staff had proposed moving more day‑to‑day HR responsibilities under the town manager, with outside consultant support as needed. Councilors asked for further input and suggested a review after three to six months if implemented.
Whiteland Police Chief Derek Oxton reported personnel moves: promotion of Sergeant Kenny Pauley to lieutenant on B‑shift, active recruitment for the open sergeant slot and a patrol vacancy. The chief said applications were under review and he expected hires to be introduced at a future meeting.
Councilors and staff discussed utility collection procedures after a recent incident in which a town employee was chased off a property by a dog while placing a door hanger. Council members agreed the monthly utility bill and mailed notices meet the town’s procedural requirements and that routine door‑hanger reminders put field staff at risk. The council directed staff to discontinue routine door‑hanger reminders for customers two months delinquent and rely on the mailed notice process and existing reconnection policies; staff said reconnection requires payment of past‑due amounts or a payment arrangement.
Ending: The council scheduled continued HR discussion for the next meeting, welcomed the police staffing updates and directed staff to revise the utility reminder process to prioritize employee safety while preserving collection options.
