Salem’s new Police Chief Susan Miller was sworn into office by Mayor Nick Farley Monday night.
Farley noted the historical significance of the event.
“Five years ago today, we swore in our first woman mayor in the city of Salem, and five years to the day we will swear in our first woman police chief. It’s historic for Salem, and it couldn’t be more deserved for a person who has worked hard and diligently for the last twenty years.”
Miller is now in her 29th year at the police department, starting as a patrolman and working her way up to Deputy Chief before being named chief. She recalled her childhood in making remarks to those gathered in the council chamber.
“The ten-year-old me, who used to dress up in the plastic cowboy belts with the barbie with the head torn off as my gun, is really excited today,” Miller said, laughing. “I thank you all for your support. I see lots of faces who have been here and have helped guide me and directed me. This is your success as much as mine, and I do appreciate all of that.”
After the meeting, Miller said her top priority was filling the three vacancies in the department. They include her replacement as Deputy Chief and two open patrolman positions. Miller hopes to have all the positions filled by the end of the year.
The council, with little discussion, gave final approval to the city’s tax levy for next year’s property tax bills. It is 3.99 percent higher than last year’s levy, but will likely be trimmed due to the maximum increase allowed this year under tax caps is 3.4 percent.
Mayor Farley appointed SCHS teacher Ivy Balla to an opening on the Salem Historical Society. The board also agreed to sell surplus phones from the old phone system recently taken out of service.
The board agreed to surplus the phones from their old phone system and will sell them online.
City Manager Annette Sola says the city will face more expensive repairs to the Carlyle Lake water line. A pump has gone out. The city just recently replaced a motor. Public Works Director Travis Sanders says the line is still working without the pump, but likely won’t be needed for a while due to the heavy rains on Monday.
Susan Miller gets her police chief badge pinned by her husband Greg Miller.
