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Lynn Haven approves Lewis Blanchard as new police chief amid mixed public reaction
Summary
After a national search that drew 43 applicants, the commission approved Lewis Blanchard as Lynn Haven’s police chief with a unanimous roll‑call vote; residents and commissioners debated timing, local candidates and past allegations in the county before the vote.
The Lynn Haven City Commission voted unanimously to approve Lewis Blanchard as the city’s new police chief, with a planned start date of Feb. 9. The approval followed a recruitment process that produced 43 applicants, 11 phone interviews and three finalists, the interim city manager told the commission.
Why it matters: The police‑chief selection came amid citywide concern about departmental culture, past personnel controversies and community calls for transparency. Several residents urged delay until after a pending recall election; others, including current department employees and community leaders, urged the…
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