Marion council approves two new patrol hires and swears in one officer

The Marion City Council unanimously approved hiring two patrol officers and administered the oath to one of them during its regular meeting.

Commissioner Barwick moved and the council approved the Merit Board and Chief Fitz's recommendations to hire Jacob Brazinski as a patrol officer, with a start date of Dec. 9, 2024. Chief Fitz said Brazinski is transitioning from the U.S. Air Force and "will be here this weekend" as he finalizes a house purchase, and the council indicated they expect to introduce him at the next meeting.

Barwick then moved to hire Brian Walsh as a patrol officer at the collective-bargaining pay rate, with a start date of Dec. 10, 2024. Chief Fitz described Walsh as "formerly out from the United States Marine Corps" and noted Walsh's current security work at Southeastern Illinois College. Walsh addressed the council, saying, "Thank you for the opportunity to serve," and introduced his wife and daughters before the council administered the oath of office and members applauded.

Both hiring motions passed on roll call votes in which Commissioners Patton, Barwick, Webb, Stan and Mayor Absher voted yes. The council did not record any opposing or abstaining votes.

The council did not provide additional details about each officer's assignment or academy schedule for Brazinski; Walsh is scheduled to attend the police training institute in Champaign in January, the chief said.

The council's action completes the formal appointment steps recorded on the meeting agenda; both hires were presented as Merit Board recommendations and approved without further debate.