Council approves police chaplain appointment for Pablo Rote

Myrtle Creek's council voted to appoint Pablo Rote as the city's police chaplain after a staff presentation on the role and costs.

Police department representative (Police chief, S8) told the council Rote is a member of the Southern Oregon Public Safety Chaplains with training in crisis and group intervention and that the city's direct cost would be minimal, mostly insurance for ride-alongs. "The only cost is for basically insurance… it's $13.51 a month," S8 said while describing the plan for a uniform and badge. Councilors discussed the chaplain's duties—ride-alongs, family contact after suicides, and confidential support for officers—and whether officers would be comfortable accepting chaplain support.

Councilor (S3) made the motion to approve putting the chaplain appointment on the administrative list and S1 seconded; the motion passed by voice vote. After the vote the council agreed staff should invite Rote to a future meeting to be sworn in and introduced to the council.

Why it matters: Councilors framed the appointment as low-cost, community-minded support for both families after critical incidents and for officer wellness. Staff emphasized the volunteer nature and confidentiality of the role.