By SYDNEY KENT
The hiring process for Ossian police officers is continuing with efforts to streamline the process that were discussed at Tuesday evening’s meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners.
The board discussed adjusting the polygraph portion of the hiring process to the beginning after a candidate passes an initial interview. The reason for this would be to avoid investing time and money into a candidate that may ultimately fail at the polygraph stage.
Ossian Police Chief Kurt Jack said four candidates completed written and agility training on May 20. Those potential officers will continue with a thorough background check, as well as at least two lateral candidates.
The board also discussed additional factors in the hiring process, including a delay in academy availability and offering a sign-on bonus for new officers with the stipulation that they remain with the department for a certain amount of time. That will help Ossian retain officers long term.
Also discussed at the meeting:
• Two cars are currently being fixed. Jack is currently collecting quotes to purchase an additional vehicle to meet the needs of additional officers.
• Jack confirmed all officers are certified and qualified with handgun regulations and the use of Watchguard cameras.
• A police department in Lima, Ohio, is interested in the unused D.A.R.E. van. The matter will be decided at a future meeting.
• The pay matrix will be discussed at the upcoming town council meeting at 7 p.m. Monday.
sydney@news-banner.com
