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Beckleynews.net

There is a New Police Chief in Town...And his Name is Baumgardner
For You by Art Harvath, HNN Correspondent

Mayor David Felinton removed Gordon Ramey as chief of police Thursday and immediately replaced him with a former state police officer. Retired state police captain Gene Baumgardner was chosen to replace Ramey, and he was sworn in as chief at 5 p.m. Thursday. Baumgardner was also unavailable for comment.

City council must now vote to confirm his appointment. The council has 60 days in which to do so.
Several councilman have voiced their support for the move.

“I think this is exactly what the police department needs,” said Tom McCallister.
At least one councilman is skeptical of the move. Jim Insco questioned the mayor’s motives.

“The mayor is trying to make headlines with anything at hand to divert attention away from the serious shape that the city is in,” said Insco.

Felinton will hold a press conference 10 a.m. Friday at City Hall to announce the change.