Chief of Police- West Plains (MO) Police Department

THE CITY OF WEST PLAINS CHIEF OF POLICE IS SEEKING A OUR COMMUNITY West Plains, the county seat of Howell County in rural southcentral Missouri, has a population of about 12,300. The city serves as a key service, retail, and employment hub for the region, accommodating over 30,000 regional residents daily. The City of West Plains is home to Ozarks Healthcare, a comprehensive healthcare system that includes primary and specialty clinics, as well as rehabilitation, behavioral health, and home health services. The 114-bed acute care hospital handles over 5,400 admissions annually, while the entire health system records more than 364,000 patient visits each year across South Central Missouri and Northern Arkansas. Missouri State University-West Plains is a public, two-year, open-admission campus within the Missouri State University system, known for providing quality education in a relaxed, personal environment. CITY ORGANIZATION The city employs 200 full-time employees and 40 seasonal/temporary employees during the summer. West Plains has general fund revenues of $11.4 million and a total operating budget of approximately $14.2 million. The city is a full-service municipality with several departments, including Administration, Community Services, Transportation, Emergency Services, Planning, and Utilities. THE DEPARTMENT The West Plains Police Department, with a budget of approximately $3.78 million, is fully staffed with 32 sworn officers and 7 civilian staff. It is a service-oriented agency committed to integrity, professionalism, respect, and teamwork. THE POSITION The police chief is an at-will position appointed by the city council and reports to the city administrator. As a member of the executive team, the chief oversees police services including law enforcement, criminal investigations, community relations, traffic control, dispatch, evidence collection, records maintenance, crime prevention, and animal control. CITY GOVERNMENT West Plains, incorporated in 1883, is a home rule charter city. The City Council sets policy, approves the budget, and represents residents' interests. CANDIDATE PROFILE The ideal candidate for police chief will have a strong commitment to fostering trust and collaboration between the police and the community, a proven record of ethical leadership, and extensive experience in law enforcement. QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE The next chief of police for West Plains should have a robust background in law enforcement, supported by a strong educational foundation. Qualifications include a minimum of ten years in law enforcement, with significant leadership experience in a municipal police department. POSITION CHALLENGES Current challenges include strengthening community police relations, supporting the growth of younger staff members, securing necessary funding to expand the force, and combating drug-related crime. COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS The chief of police position has a salary range of $73,487.70 - $102,460.80. A comprehensive benefit package is offered, which includes retirement, health plans, dental plans, vision plans, vacation, holidays, life insurance, and additional benefits. APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter along with a list of at least five references to hr@westplains.gov. The position is open until filled with the first review occurring after January 17th, 2025. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Beccie Williams, Human Resources Director 417-256-7176 ext. 2210, or by email to beccie.williams@westplains.gov

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