Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Personnel topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Mitchell council confirms mayoral pick, administers oath to new police chief
Summary
The Mitchell City Council approved Mayor Hansen's recommendation to appoint Dean Knippling as police chief and administered the oath of office. The appointment was made by motion and approved by voice vote; the mayor invited the new chief to assume duties immediately.
Mayor Justin Hansen told the City Council he recommended appointing Dean Knippling as Mitchell’s police chief, and council members approved the appointment by motion. After the vote, the mayor invited the appointee to the podium and administered the oath of office.
The oath—recited in full at the meeting—committed the appointee to “support the Constitution of the United States, the constitution of the state of South Dakota, and ordinances of said city of Mitchell,” and to “faithfully and impartially…perform all the duties of the office of chief of police.” The swearing-in followed a brief congratulatory exchange in the council chambers.
Why it matters: A confirmed police chief sets leadership for the municipal department and will guide local public-safety priorities, staffing and community policing strategies. The appointment was processed through the council’s standard motion-and-vote procedure.
What happened: Mayor Hansen presented the nomination and the council moved and seconded the appointment. Council members signaled approval during the roll call and by voice votes. After the oath, residents and officials offered brief congratulations.
What’s next: The council did not record additional motions tied to the appointment at the meeting; administrative onboarding and any personnel paperwork will follow under city staff direction.
