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Freeport swears in new police chief Jacqueline B.; city honors long-serving employees and announces fire chief retirement

Freeport City Council · January 6, 2026

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Summary

Council administered the oath to Jacqueline B. as Freeport's new police chief; the meeting included multiple employee recognitions and a lifetime achievement award for retired Chief Chris Schenberger and acknowledgement that Fire Chief Scott Miller will retire at month-end.

The council administered the oath of office to the newly appointed chief of police, who identified herself in the oath as "Jacqueline b." and pledged to support the constitutions of the United States and Illinois and to faithfully discharge the duties of the appointment in Stephenson County and the City of Freeport.

After the oath, the new chief addressed the council: "Wearing this in this uniform and wearing the badge is something that we do ... we are here to work together. It's not about state of color. It's not about how you look. It's not about gender. It is about making everyone here ... to ensure that we bridge the relationship with my police officers and all of you." The chief thanked Mayor Jody Miller and City Manager Rob (surname not specified) for the appointment and pledged partnership with the community.

The meeting also included a series of employee recognitions. Lucinda Lenore was named utility employee of the year for roughly 25 years of service in water and sewer billing. Todd Marsh was recognized as street department employee of the year for 32 years of service; Tiffany Bender and Blaine Strickwell received honorable mentions. Jabria Pearson was presented the city hall employee of the year award; Michelle Richter was recognized as director/department head of the year for a second time. Darren Stiekel received the first Community Impact Award.

Council members also honored Chris Schenberger with a lifetime achievement award for more than two decades in policing and recognized Chief Scott Miller's long fire-service career and upcoming retirement at the end of the month.

The recognitions portion concluded and the council moved on to regular business.