Council swears in police chief Suniga

REARDAN -Approximately 50 people attended an emotional town council meeting Thursday, March 16, at which time the council accepted former police chief Andy Manke's resignation.

Mayor Gail Daniels presented Manke a glass plaque, acknowledging his three-year service to the community. Officer Melissa Foust read a tribute to Manke and presented him with a shadow box containing mementos from his time with the police department.

Manke, choking back tears, thanked the council for its support, stating, "It has been awesome working here. In my 18-year career, this has been my favorite job."

Manke recently accepted a position with the Spokane Tribal Police.

Daniels then swore in the new chief of police Mikeal Suniga, whose first day on the job was March 6. After taking his oath of office, Suniga's wife Molly pinned his new badge onto his uniform.

During the time set aside for public comment, Marty Hoffman addressed the council regarding his concern over community safety.

Hoffman referenced the town's recent shooting and complained about juveniles trespassing on private property and fighting downtown. He urged council to take action to address this growing problem.

Library board member Steve Veltrie reported a new reading program available to children in the community. Dolly Parton's Imagination Library will mail one book per month, with the child's name on it to participating children.

Information regarding enrollment in this free program is available at the library.