Ocean Shores welcomes new public-safety members; assistant chief vacancy announced

Ocean Shores reported personnel updates at a public safety meeting, saying six new members recently started and two current members — Kara McDermott and Bridal Sackman — are enrolled in a paramedic program described at the meeting as the "Boston program." Lateral hires are serving a six‑month probation while other new members serve one year of probation with testing on policies and procedures.

A meeting speaker said Chief Mandela is transitioning out of his current role and the city opened an application window for an assistant chief position, with applications due "on the 31st." The speaker said at least one inquiry or applicant had contacted the office and noted that Mike has submitted materials for the emergency-management position.

Attendees praised the new hires and described them as quick to learn local procedures. No formal personnel actions, hires or appointments were taken at the meeting; staff said the next steps include reviewing applications for the assistant chief role and coordinating with city leadership on the transition.