In a unanimous vote Monday night, the Gallatin Board of Aldermen dismissed two Gallatin police officers. The vote was taken in closed session following a 50-minute public discussion in which the police force was supported by those who spoke.
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Two Gallatin police officers were dismissed by unanimous vote of the board of aldermen Monday night following a 50-minute public discussion session where citizens mostly voiced support for city police.
Kenny Lukehart, retired police officer who served Gallatin for many years, has been hired on a part-time basis for public safety purposes and other interim options are now being pursued. City Administrator Jason Helton says Gallatin now seeks a new police chief and two officers to complete a 3-man department.
Four reasons for the dismissal of Chief Todd Watson and Officer Darren Price are cited:
— incompetency or inefficiency
— insubordination or violation of any official order or regulation
— violation of known city rules and policies
— actions or activity incompatible with good public service
“What really began as an internal personnel matter turned into what we’re dealing with now,” says Administrator Helton. “It should have been dealt with in-house but, instead, issues were taken to the court of public opinion.”
Mr. Helton stated that a void in local police protection existed for about 5 to 6 hours yesterday immediately after the dismissal of the two officers. Scheduling of patrol hours and other details pertinent to police protection are not being divulged for obvious reasons.
Administrator Helton does not offer further comment. He does note, however, that several people who previously signed petitions circulating in support of the dismissed officers have called city hall asking that their names be removed from the petitions due to misrepresentation.
Other business conducted during the meeting Monday was limited. Payment of bills totaling $67,965.50 was approved. Alderman Bob Snidow noted that current revenue and expenditures are in line with budget projections.