Submitted by Brady Hayek
A Letter to Mayor Bailey, City Council Members and City Manager King,
With the selection of a new Chief of Police nearly upon you, I encourage you to seriously consider one of our own, Officer Keith James, for this position. For nearly 33 years, Keith James has served the people of this great community. No other candidate can or will bring as much experience.
Throughout his long and dedicated career, Keith has been the sole officer to live in the city with which he works – something that should be mandatory for any Chief of Police candidate.
While most officers’ jobs end when they leave the island for the day, Keith’s does not. As a visible citizen and local business owner, he selflessly makes time for any resident or visitor, on or off duty, any time of day. He is fair and open-minded and treats every resident, and visitor, with dignity and respect.
Keith will bring productive common sense leadership as Chief, effectively leading the police department while fostering a positive and efficient work environment.
This position would be an honor to Officer James, not just a paycheck. Not considering a proven officer like Keith for Chief of Police due to a training or education requirement, which is trumped by his years of experience, is a mistake.
It is time to promote from within and Keith James is the right man for the job.
Brady Hayek
