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Marion hires two patrol officers, approves new fleet including K‑9 vehicle
Summary
The council approved hiring Nicholas Compton and Kaylee Potter as patrol officers and authorized purchase of six Dodge Durango units and a Ford F‑150 to be converted to a K‑9 vehicle. Potter took the oath at the meeting.
The Marion City Council voted to hire two patrol officers and approved a package of new police vehicles during the continued meeting.
Commissioner Barwick moved to hire Nicholas Compton as a patrol officer at the collective‑bargaining pay rate, with a reported start date in May 2026. Chief Fitz described Compton as a graduate of the University of Alabama Huntsville who had been working in Alabama and teaching baseball; the council approved the hire by roll call.
Barwick also moved to hire Kaylee Potter as a patrol officer; Chief Fitz described Potter as a Marion resident and a former U.S. Marine. Potter addressed the council and said, "I just want to say thank you for this opportunity and I would be honored to serve the citizens of Marion." The council administered the oath and the hiring was approved by roll call.
On fleet purchases, the council approved Chief Fitz's recommendation to purchase six Dodge Durango SUVs and one Ford F‑150 from Jim Hayes as a FY2027 budgeted item. Members discussed disposition of retired units and whether to upfit the F‑150's cooling system because the vehicle will carry a K‑9 and may idle for the dog's benefit; staff said the units are on the lot and ready for acquisition. The motion passed on roll call.
Why it matters: The hires add sworn capacity to Marion's police force and the new vehicles update an aging fleet and include a vehicle dedicated for K‑9 use. The council recorded votes by roll call for each item.
