The City of Jamestown could soon have a new police chief.
WJRS NEWS has learned that longtime Jamestown Police Chief Jeff Kerns has requested to step down from his leadership role and be reassigned as the department’s full-time School Resource Officer at Jamestown Elementary School. The move comes as students prepare to return to class, with the new school year scheduled to begin Wednesday, August 12.
Jamestown Mayor Regina Hinton confirmed to WJRS NEWS that a special called meeting of the Jamestown City Council has been scheduled for Wednesday evening to discuss the matter and possibly take action on appointing a new chief of police.
Under city procedures, the mayor will make a recommendation for Chief Kerns’ successor, which must then be confirmed by a vote of the city council.
WJRS NEWS has learned that at least two current members of the Jamestown Police Department are being considered for the position. At this time, there has been no indication whether any candidates from outside the department are being considered or have expressed interest in the job.
Chief Kerns has served the Jamestown Police Department for many years, and if the council approves the proposed changes, he would transition into the full-time School Resource Officer position in time for the start of the upcoming school year.
WJRS NEWS will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates following Wednesday night’s special called meeting.