Editorial Cartoon: Big Ego
City Manager Scott Smith attributed Bryan Baker’s professionalism to Baker being named as the full-time police chief for the Charleston Police Department.
Baker, who has served as interim police chief since June 21, was informed of his permanent position late last week. He begins his first day as full-time police chief Monday.
“Bryan has proven he has the skills necessary to effectively manage the division,” Smith said. “He’s very professional, responsible and has the education and training necessary to fulfill the requirements of the position.”
Baker took over as interim after former Police Chief Mark Jenkins retired and took the chief position for the Casey Police Department, which has a smaller force than Charleston.
After being named interim, Baker said he had to adjust to new duties, mainly learning to work with the media and managing personnel issues. He said the transition, however, has been smooth.
Baker served as deputy police chief since May 2008 before switching to the interim position. He has been with CPD for 19 years.
Baker said he would try to continue to integrate certain initiatives within the department.
“I hope to continue to build upon things Chief Jenkins started,” he said.
These initiatives include enhancing recruitment, outreach to the community, and working with Eastern’s administration and police force.
He said he wants to work with Eastern’s Student Life Office in organizing activities, such as expanding the Good Neighbor program.
Smith said Baker showed he was extremely capable of managing the department since his appointment in June.
Smith informed the City Council, which does not need to approve the appointment, of his intentions to make Baker the full-time chief in a closed session Aug. 18.
Smith said the council has supported the decision.
Mayor John Inyart said the department seems to like Baker’s leadership and has adjusted well to the change in leadership.
“He has shown himself to be organized and professional,” he said. “I think he has shown himself to be worthy of the support of his department.”
Stephen Di Benedetto can be reached at 581-7942 or at sdibenedetto@eiu.edu.
