Story posted Friday, March 12, 2010
Board Discusses Police Issues, Meets New Chief
By CRAIG ADAMS Journal & Topics Reporter
The Wheeling Village Board met in an executive session workshop on Monday, Mar. 8 to discuss security procedures and how village police personnel are addressing certain law enforcement issues.
Village Manager Jon Sfondilis explained the meeting did not violate the Open Meetings Act. The act does allow closed discussions regarding certain police matters.
"This (was) just an opportunity to have discussions about police business without compromising the safety of the officers and the citizens involved," he said.
He added that it was also a chance for board members to meet with the new acting chief, Bill Benson. Benson, the department's deputy chief, took over the acting designation with the retirement of Chief John Stone on Feb. 26.
"When it comes to police response issues, obviously the need to inform the board is one thing," Sfondilis said, adding that public knowledge of issues could compromise the integrity of police work.
He added that there are no issues or improprieties with any police officers.
"We're not using this to shield a much larger issue," he affirmed. "This is a very healthy activity for both the board and the police department."
Speak Out!
Comments are edited first by Journal staff before running in print and appearing online.