Hillsdale City Police and Fire Chief Scott Hephner has agreed to delay his retirement in an effort to assist in finding his replacement.
Hephner submitted a letter to city officials on November 6th, announcing his retirement effective December 1st.
At Monday’s regular city council meeting, Mayor Scott Sessions announced that Hephner has agreed to postpone his retirement until sometime in February.
Hephner told council that, in addition to assisting in finding his replacement, the delay will allow him to assist in the budgeting process, as well as other required administrative processes that will get underway in January.
The Police Chief is a mayoral appointment. Sessions said he will engage the city manager, the human resources department, and the Public Safety Department.
Hephner has served with the police department for 38 years, beginning as a patrol officer. He moved up through the ranks to become Police Chief. The title of Fire Chief was added to his job description several years ago.
Council members thanked Hephner for his years of service during Monday’s meeting.