Marion council unanimously hires three new patrol officers and swears them in

The Marion City Council voted unanimously to hire three patrol officers and administered their oaths of office during the regular meeting.

The council approved the merit board and Police Chief Fitz's recommendations to hire Chase Stanley, Evan Zakovic and Noah Haney as patrol officers at the agreed-upon rate under the collective bargaining agreement. The start dates were set for Dec. 29 (Stanley), Dec. 30 (Zakovic) and Dec. 31, 2025 (Haney). The motions were moved, seconded and passed by roll call.

Chief Fitz introduced each new officer and noted their prior service. He said of Stanley that he "is a Johnson City native" and a U.S. Army veteran with specialized experience the department values. After introductions, each recruit addressed the council and supporters: "I just wanna thank the city of Marion and the Marion Police Department for let me start my career off here," one officer said, and another thanked the chief, the merit board and the council "for giving me the opportunity to serve the people in my community."

All three officers then stood before the clerk to take the oath of office, pledging to support the constitutions of the United States and the State of Illinois and to "faithfully discharge the duties of the office of patrol officer to the best of my ability." The council arranged for the officers, their families and city officials to gather for photographs and to sign appointment paperwork immediately after the ceremony.

Why it matters: The hires add three sworn officers to Marion's ranks ahead of the new year; the council's action implements merit board recommendations and brings three veterans into local service.

The council did not amend the pay or start dates at the meeting; all three appointments were approved as presented. The meeting record shows the new officers were sworn and the council adjourned after routine final business.