Police Merit Commission

ABOUT THE POLICE MERIT COMMISSION:

Established, by city ordinance, in 1992. Commissioners were selected and began business in 1993. Two Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor, two are elected by the officers of the Police Department, and one is selected by the City Council. Of the Commissioners selected by the Mayor and the Police Officers, one must be a Republican and one must be a Democrat or Independent.

The Commissioners are charged, both by City ordinance and by State statute, with the responsibilities of selecting new officers for the department, and presiding over specific disciplinary proceedings. The Commission's authority in disciplinary matters ranges from reprimand to termination. Additionally, the Commissioners are responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing promotional processes.
 

2025 Police Merit Commission Members:

Member Name Appointed By Term
John Shafer- President City Council 1/1/2025 - 12/31/2028
Joe Allen Officers 1/1/2023 - 12/31/2026
Joey Hollis Officers 1/1/2025 - 12/31/2028
Les Tabeling Mayor 1/1/2023 - 12/31/2026
Joshua Shanafelt Mayor 1/1/2025 - 12/31/2028
William Barrett, Attorney    
 
The Police Merit Commission meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall - 70 E. Monroe Street.