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Two officers sworn in; council honors departing police chief
Summary
The council swore in Officers Jessica Bakken and Riley Nicola and held a retirement tribute for the outgoing police chief, who said health reasons prompted his departure after a long law‑enforcement career.
Mayor Grover administered oaths of office to two new police officers during the Feb. 25 meeting. Jessica Bakken and Riley Nicola each repeated the oath to support the constitutions of the United States and Washington state and to "faithfully discharge the duties of police officer to the best of my ability." Staff described both officers' training and backgrounds; staff noted Bakken completed field training and previously worked with the Spokane County Sheriff's Department, and Nicola was hired in May, completed the academy and field training, and has been described as a strong addition to the department.
Later in the meeting the departing police chief addressed the council, saying this was his last meeting due to health concerns and reflecting on his career since 1979. Council members thanked him for decades of service and leadership and wished him well in retirement.
