Henderson City Manager Jacob Snow recommends Patrick Moers as the new chief of police

The Henderson City Council is expected to vote on the appointment of new chief of police Patrick Moers at today's council meeting.

The swearing-in ceremony is slated to take place at 6 p.m. in the council chambers at City Hall, 240 S. Water St.

"Much is being entrusted to you," said Councilwoman Debra March, who served as mayor pro tem at the July 3 meeting while Mayor Andy Hafen was gone.

At the July 3 meeting, City Manager Jacob Snow named Moers as his recommendation, which conjured applause from dozens of officers in the audience.

"That says something about a leader when everyone stands for you," Councilwoman Gerri Schroder said. "I am looking forward to the future."

Since Snow's appointment by the council, he has been charged with finding a new chief. Former chief Jutta Chambers retired in March.

The quest was narrowed from nearly a dozen candidates.

"In my assessment of the city of Henderson's police department over the last three months, I believe it is an outstanding department," Snow said. "It's the best in the state. I believe the department needs an individual leader who will foster a culture of trust and cooperation."

Snow said the role of the chief should establish trust not only within the police department but also with residents, business owners and other city officials and department heads.

"Residents need to have the confidence that the police department will treat them with courtesy and respect, which I believe they do," Snow said. "Business owners need to have the confidence and trust that their investment and employees will be safe and secure and the city will cooperate with them if problems arise."

Snow added that city officials need to have confidence that the department will work with them to solve the challenges that arise.

"Most importantly, if you are an employee of the police department, whether it is civil or a sworn-in officer, you need to have confidence the chief of police is going to listen to what you have to say," Snow said. "Not only that, but respect what you have to say. If (officers) are working day in and day out on the streets, they know what's going on and might have the solutions to some problems we face."

Moers, who has worked his way through the department, has served as interim police chief since Chambers retired.

"I am thankful to the city manager for entrusting me with this leadership," Moers said. "I will do everything in my power to guide the success of this institution."

Contact Henderson/Anthem View reporter Michael Lyle at mlyle@viewnews.com or 387-5201.