Ad for police Chief raises questions

By Laurie Watt

BARRIE - City council is demanding answers about an advertisement for a police chief that ran in Saturday’s Glode and Mail Careers section.

Some police board members say the ad wasn’t authorized, doesn’t incorporate certain legal requirements, and blurs the line between police and politics.

One inconsistency in policy has the ad directing resumes to City Hall, although the Barrie Police Services has its own human resources department. The last time the board hired a chief, resumes were sent to the Barrie Police Services Board secretary.

“There are a lot of questions that need to be answered. Who authorized the ad? How did the ad end up in the Globe and Mail? Did the city’s human-resources department authorize it?” said Ward 7 Coun. John Brassard.

“If you look, the ad’s not even remotely close to what the city uses. There’s no indication of protection of privacy. There are questions that need to be answered.”

A typical employment ad includes a detailed description of the job, as well as education and experience requirements. Barrie cites a pay range and the ads enable resumes to be sent electronically or by regular mail. A final paragraph includes a legislative assurance to protect privacy.

The police chief ad, however, doesn’t include many specifics, but instead talks in vague generalities. It doesn’t mention pay. There are also issues with grammar and spelling.

“The ideal candidate has extensive knowledge in all areas of police work, and able to balance the needs to providing a safe community with fiscal responsibility and implementing the policy’s of the Barrie Police Services Board,” it reads.

“The candidates’ exceptional communication skills with (sic) provide leadership for day to day operations, administrative and support sections of the service.”

Brassard said council – which appoints three members of the five-member police board – is concerned about the message the ad sends, considering the timing, just two weeks after the chief threatened to resign.

“(The ad) undermines his credibility and also the credibility of the rank and file. The placement of this ad makes him a lame duck chief. That’s not good for the rank and file and it’s not good for the community,” he added.