Council agrees to release police assessment with redactions after consultant briefing

Following a closed session under Virginia law, the council voted to release the 05/14/2025 operational review and functional assessment of the Purcellville Police Department, subject to redactions to protect personnel and security information.

Consultant Michael A. Jones (S24) introduced himself as a retired chief with experience across departments and described his work timeline and procurement: he said he was first approached informally in late January and that the RFP was posted Feb. 15 with the formal award posted March 21 and contract work starting after March 18. When asked whether he reviewed the department’s policies and procedures, Jones replied, "Absolutely... I found them to be very well done," and said the department follows Virginia and national law‑enforcement standards, noting the department’s recent accreditation.

Council questioned the selection process for the consultant, including whether meetings with a potential bidder prior to the RFP were appropriate and whether a council member’s dual role as an officer created perceived bias. The town manager and staff explained the process and the rationale for involving a council member with law‑enforcement experience in initial information gathering; the record shows those pre‑RFP meetings occurred before the solicitation was posted.

The vote to publish the assessment (with redactions recommended by the town attorney) passed by voice vote; council members made clear redactions would protect confidential personnel information and operational security consistent with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.