Category: North Carolina

About cities in North Carolina

James Smith Appointed President of PowerSecure, a Southern Company Subsidiary

Post author By Howard Rhodes
Post date 30 November 2023

PowerSecure, a prominent national leader in microgrid solutions and a subsidiary of Southern Company, has announced the appointment of James Smith as its new president. In his role, Smith will lead the executive team and report directly to Chief Executive Officer Chris Cummiskey.

Smith brings a wealth of experience to his new position. Prior to his role as chief operating officer at PowerSecure, where he oversaw the company’s rapidly expanding microgrid business and managed a fleet of 2 gigawatts of installed systems, he served as the president of energy efficiency services at PowerSecure from 2013 to 2018. During this time, Smith was responsible for delivering top-of-the-line solutions in various areas, including lighting, controls, water conservation, and renewable energy. His focus was on reducing energy costs, enhancing operations, and maximizing life cycle cost efficiency.

Furthermore, Smith held significant leadership positions in other prominent energy companies. He served as the executive vice president and group president of Lime Energy, a national provider of clean energy solutions, from 2004 to 2012. Prior to that, Smith worked for Ameresco Inc., an independent provider of comprehensive energy services, as the director of engineering and operations. His expertise extends to his tenure at Duke Solutions, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, and Burlington Industries.

Smith’s extensive qualifications include a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from North Carolina State University. Additionally, he holds numerous licenses and certifications in construction, engineering, project management, and safety.

PowerSecure, as a Southern Company subsidiary, leads the way in distributed energy innovation. Over the past two decades, the company’s team of experts has developed, installed, managed, and serviced over two gigawatts of microgrid capacity. Additionally, PowerSecure has implemented energy efficiency upgrades totaling more than $800 million. With a holistic, end-to-end approach, the company focuses on delivering clean and resilient energy solutions to customers at optimal value.

Southern Company, the parent company of PowerSecure, is a leading energy provider serving millions of customers across the Southeast and beyond. As part of its commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability, Southern Company aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. It has received recognition and accolades from various organizations for its corporate culture, hiring practices, and commitment to social progress.

For more information about PowerSecure and Southern Company, please visit www.southerncompany.com.

FAQ

1. Who is James Smith?

James Smith is the newly appointed president of PowerSecure, a subsidiary of Southern Company. He brings extensive experience in the energy sector, particularly in microgrid solutions and energy efficiency services.

2. What will be James Smith’s role as president?

As president of PowerSecure, James Smith will lead the executive team and report to Chief Executive Officer Chris Cummiskey. He will be responsible for overseeing and furthering the company’s strategic initiatives.

3. What is PowerSecure known for?

PowerSecure is a nationally recognized leader in microgrid solutions and distributed energy innovation. The company has installed and managed over two gigawatts of microgrid capacity and implemented energy efficiency upgrades exceeding $800 million.

4. What is Southern Company’s commitment to sustainability?

Southern Company aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The company is dedicated to innovation, resilience, and sustainability, ensuring clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy for its customers while addressing environmental concerns.

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20 Most Affordable Cities to Live in the United States

Post author By Daniel Hall
Post date 30 November 2023

Finding an affordable city to live in the United States is becoming increasingly challenging, but not impossible. We have compiled a list of the top 20 most affordable cities, taking into account the cost of living, median household incomes, home values, and quality of life. These cities offer the benefits of low living costs without sacrificing amenities or opportunities.

1. Fort Wayne, Indiana: With a median household income of approximately $54,000, Fort Wayne is a suburban area popular among families and young professionals. The average home price is $130,700, making it an excellent city to buy a house. It also boasts great public schools, family amenities, a decent job market, and a diverse community.

2. Youngstown, Ohio: A retirement haven, Youngstown offers a sparse suburban feel. The median home value is only $48,600, and median rent prices are $640. Despite a lower median household income of $31,000, the city provides affordable living, abundant outdoor activities, and a diverse community.

3. Harlingen, Texas: This residential suburban area in Cameron County has median home values of around $95,000 and median household incomes averaging just over $46,000. With above-average public schools, a decent job market, and great weather, Harlingen attracts many families.

4. Sioux Falls, South Dakota: Growing in popularity, Sioux Falls is a great choice for families and professionals. It offers median home values around $220,000 and average annual incomes surpassing $66,000. With excellent public schools, ample amenities, a thriving job market, and outdoor activities, Sioux Falls provides a high quality of life.

5. Hickory, North Carolina: Hickory appeals to people of all ages and family types. The city boasts home values around $200,000, and the median household income is $53,000. Along with great public schools, a decent job market, numerous outdoor activities, and a diverse community, Hickory offers a well-rounded living experience.

FAQ:

Q: Are these cities only suitable for certain age groups?
A: No, these cities cater to a wide range of age groups and family types, offering amenities and opportunities for everyone.

Q: Do these cities have good schools?
A: Many of these cities have above-average public schools, making them attractive options for families.

Q: How affordable are the homes in these cities?
A: Home prices vary, but most cities on this list have median home values below the national average, ensuring affordable housing options.

Q: Do these cities offer job opportunities?
A: While job markets differ, many cities on this list have decent job markets, providing employment opportunities for residents.

Q: Are there recreational activities available in these cities?
A: Absolutely! These cities offer abundant outdoor activities, including parks, trails, and other recreational opportunities.

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Piedmont Natural Gas Recognized for Outstanding Customer Satisfaction

Post author By Howard Rhodes
Post date 29 November 2023

Charlotte, N.C. – Piedmont Natural Gas has once again claimed the top spot for customer satisfaction with residential natural gas service in the South, according to the J.D. Power 2023 Gas Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study. This marks the second consecutive year that Piedmont has earned this prestigious recognition, outperforming six other utilities in the South Large segment.

Sasha Weintraub, the Senior Vice President and President of Piedmont Natural Gas, expressed gratitude for the recognition and credited the entire Piedmont team for their dedication to customer service. The company considers customer satisfaction to be the driving force behind their operations and success.

Piedmont Natural Gas has consistently implemented strategies to address the needs and expectations of their customers, resulting in top rankings across various study factors. These factors include billing and payment, corporate citizenship, communications, customer care, safety, and reliability.

The J.D. Power 2023 Gas Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study collected responses from 60,958 online interviews conducted between January 2023 and October 2023, covering residential customers of the 85 largest gas utility brands in the United States.

Piedmont Natural Gas, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, serves over 1.1 million residential, commercial, industrial, and power generation customers across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company, is one of the largest energy holding companies in America, serving 8.2 million electric customers and 1.6 million natural gas customers across multiple states.

As part of its commitment to clean energy, Duke Energy aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050 and is actively pursuing clean energy technologies such as hydrogen and advanced nuclear power generation. The company has been recognized on Fortune’s “World’s Most Admired Companies” list and Forbes’ “World’s Best Employers” list.

Piedmont Natural Gas continues to provide exceptional service and prioritize customer satisfaction, solidifying its position as a trusted leader in the utility industry.

FAQ

1. How many utilities did Piedmont Natural Gas surpass in the South Large segment?

Piedmont Natural Gas topped six other utilities in the South Large segment.

2. What were the study factors in which Piedmont Natural Gas excelled?

Piedmont Natural Gas received top rankings in billing and payment, corporate citizenship, communications, customer care, safety, and reliability.

3. How many interviews were conducted for the J.D. Power 2023 Gas Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study?

The study collected responses from 60,958 online interviews conducted between January 2023 and October 2023.

4. How many residential customers does Piedmont Natural Gas serve?

Piedmont Natural Gas serves over 1.1 million residential customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

5. What are Duke Energy’s goals in terms of carbon emissions and clean energy?

Duke Energy aims for net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050 and has interim targets for reducing carbon emissions by 2030 and 2035. The company is also exploring clean energy technologies like hydrogen and advanced nuclear power generation.

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The Chilling Attack That Plunged Moore County into Darkness

Post author By Terence West
Post date 29 November 2023

In the early hours of December 3, 2022, over 40,000 customers in Moore County, North Carolina, were left without power. Initially, officials were uncertain about the cause of the power outage. It was only after Duke Energy officials inspected the local substation that they discovered the terrifying truth—a skilled shooter had intentionally cut off the power supply to the area. This deliberate act of sabotage left 45,000 Duke Energy customers without electricity or heat during a winter cold spell, leading to the tragic death of a resident dependent on oxygen.

The attack on Moore County was more than just a random act of violence; it was a well-planned and meticulously executed assault. The level of sophistication displayed by the shooter was evident during a tour of the substation with Representative Richard Hudson, who represents Moore County.

While the local community rallied together to support one another during the crisis, the investigation into the attack has been frustratingly slow. Despite conducting hundreds of interviews and pursuing numerous leads, Moore County Sheriff Ronnie Fields and the FBI have failed to apprehend the perpetrator responsible for the attack.

Hudson, who has been actively involved in efforts to prevent future attacks, expressed his concerns over the FBI’s level of commitment to the investigation. He believes that the agency has not prioritized this case and feels that it is not being taken as seriously as it should be. Hudson is pushing for a classified briefing that would involve his entire committee to ensure that the FBI is held accountable and provide updates on their progress.

The impact of the attack was devastating for the citizens of Moore County. Vulnerable populations who relied on electricity for medical equipment and heating suffered greatly. Local businesses had to shut down, and perishable food had to be salvaged. The community, however, came together in extraordinary ways to support one another, offering assistance such as access to food, showers, and charging stations.

The question that lingers in the air is whether this was the work of a local assailant or an orchestrated attack carried out by an outsider. As of now, there is no conclusive answer to this question. The investigation continues, and the residents of Moore County hope for justice to be served and the assurance that their community will never face such an unsettling incident again.

FAQ

Q: How many customers lost power during the attack in Moore County?

A: Over 40,000 customers were left without power in Moore County.

Q: Did anyone die as a result of the power outage?

A: Sadly, one resident who relied on oxygen to survive lost their life during the winter cold spell.

Q: Has the shooter responsible for the attack been caught?

A: No, the shooter remains at large, and the investigation is ongoing.

Q: What actions has Representative Richard Hudson taken to prevent future attacks?

A: Representative Hudson has toured a substation, held congressional meetings, and proposed legislation in an effort to prevent similar attacks from occurring in other communities.

Q: Is the FBI fully committed to investigating the attack?

A: Representative Hudson has expressed concerns about the FBI’s level of commitment to the investigation and believes that it has not been taken seriously enough. He is working to hold a classified briefing to hold the agency accountable.

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Power Restored to Duke Energy Customers in Cabarrus County After Morning Outage

Post author By Howard Rhodes
Post date 29 November 2023

Power has been restored to approximately 4,000 Duke Energy customers in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, following a widespread outage on Wednesday morning. The outage occurred during the coldest day of the year so far, adding to the urgency of restoring the power quickly.

Around 3:30 a.m., the outage was first reported, with the affected area centered just north of I-85 between Kannapolis Parkway and South Cannon Boulevard, according to Duke’s outage map. The outage was caused by an object coming into contact with power lines, although the specific details of the incident remain unknown.

Initially, Duke Energy estimated that power would be restored to the affected area by 7 a.m. However, power was successfully restored by about 5:15 a.m., much to the relief of the affected customers. This prompt resolution by Duke Energy highlights their dedication to customer service and efficiency in dealing with emergencies.

While Cabarrus County experienced the bulk of the outage, another neighboring county, Gaston County, also faced power disruptions. Over 1,700 customers in Gaston County were without power, although the cause of this particular outage has not been determined. Duke Energy expects to restore power to those customers by 8:15 a.m.

As always during power outages, it is important for customers to remain patient and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Duke Energy provides real-time outage maps for customers across North and South Carolina, allowing them to track the progress of restoration efforts and stay informed about the current situation.

FAQ:

Q: How many Duke Energy customers were affected by the outage?
A: Approximately 4,000 Duke Energy customers in Cabarrus County were affected.

Q: What caused the outage?
A: The outage was caused by an object coming into contact with power lines.

Q: When was power restored?
A: Power was restored to the affected area by about 5:15 a.m.

Q: Is the cause of the outage in Gaston County known?
A: The cause of the outage in Gaston County is not yet known.

Q: Where can I find real-time outage maps for North and South Carolina?
A: Duke Energy provides real-time outage maps for customers to track the progress of restoration efforts. [Source: duke-energy.com]

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Electric Vehicles: A New Political Cash Cow

Post author By Daniel Hall
Post date 29 November 2023

After years of debate and controversy, electric vehicles (EVs) have become a significant source of revenue and employment in key swing states. While the divisive nature of EVs may not be as apparent as it is with marijuana, these vehicles have emerged as an important talking point in the current election cycle.

A recent Gallup survey revealed that the approval rate of EVs follows deep partisan lines, with significantly more Democrats seriously considering purchasing an EV compared to Republicans and independents. Currently, a small percentage of Democrats own an EV, while the ownership among Republicans and independents is even lower. Despite this discrepancy, EVs have become a more crucial source of tax revenue and employment than marijuana in swing states.

Since the passing of the historic Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in August 2022, over $128 billion has flowed into the domestic EV and battery manufacturing sector. Interestingly, more than a third of this investment, approximately $48 billion, has gone to swing states such as Georgia, Arizona, Nevada, and Michigan. These states, alongside others like Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina, hold immense political significance in elections.

It is worth noting that the IRA faced resistance from Republicans, with not a single Republican voting in favor of the act. However, red-leaning states have surprisingly benefited the most from the IRA, receiving more funds than their blue counterparts. For instance, the report by Climate Central highlights Iowa and Oklahoma, two states with Republican leaders, leading the nation in wind power production. Texas has also retained its national leadership in both solar and wind power. Republican-leaning states are receiving larger climate investments per capita than Democrat-led states.

The significant investments in EVs in these swing states could potentially influence political narratives in the upcoming elections. As surveys indicate a close race in some of these states, the focus on EV investments could become a crucial factor. EVs have become a cash cow for swing states, highlighting the potential for economic growth and job creation in the clean energy sector.

Sources:
– Gallup Survey on EV Ownership: [URL]
– Climate Central Report: [URL]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which states have received the most investment in EV and battery manufacturing?
A: Georgia, Arizona, Nevada, and Michigan have received the most investment in EV and battery manufacturing since the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in August 2022.

Q: How do Democrats and Republicans differ in their views on EVs?
A: A recent Gallup survey shows that a higher percentage of Democrats seriously consider purchasing an EV compared to Republicans. Ownership rates of EVs are also higher among Democrats.

Q: Are EVs a more important source of revenue than marijuana in swing states?
A: Yes, EVs have emerged as a more significant source of tax revenue and employment than marijuana in key swing states.

Q: Which states have benefited the most from the Inflation Reduction Act?
A: Red-leaning states, including Iowa, Oklahoma, and Texas, have benefited the most from the Inflation Reduction Act, receiving substantial funds for renewable energy initiatives.

Q: Could the significant investments in EVs influence upcoming elections?
A: Yes, the substantial investments in EVs in swing states could become an important talking point in the current election cycle, potentially influencing political narratives in these states.

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Concord Celebrates Graduation of 2023 Class from Concord 101 Program

Post author By Howard Rhodes
Post date 28 November 2023

The City of Concord recently celebrated the graduation of 59 residents who successfully completed the esteemed Concord 101 program. This annual event saw Mayor Bill Dusch and members of the City Council recognizing the dedication and achievement of the Class of 2023 in becoming leaders within their community.

Concord 101, now in its 22nd year, is a comprehensive 14-week program that provides participants with a hands-on engagement with city leaders and a firsthand look into the operations of North Carolina’s 10th largest city. Throughout the course, individuals have the opportunity to visit different city facilities, meet with various departments and community partners, and learn about topics such as affordable housing, economic development, history, and tourism.

The graduation ceremony was an opportunity for Mayor Dusch and the City Council to encourage the graduates to become ambassadors for the city and share the knowledge they gained during the program. The Concord 101 alumni community is a diverse representation of the community, with many graduates now serving in leadership roles within their neighborhoods or on city boards and commissions. In fact, Council Members Andy Langford, Betty Stocks, Jennifer P. Hubbard, and John Sweat, Jr. are all proud graduates of the program.

To be eligible for graduation, participants must attend at least one City Council meeting and miss no more than two sessions. This year’s graduating class is one of the largest in the program’s history, with 16 participants boasting perfect attendance—an exceptional achievement.

The Concord 101 program, held annually from August through November, offers the opportunity for residents to gain a deeper understanding of their city, its operations, and its leaders. The course is free, and classes are held on Tuesday afternoons and evenings.

Congratulations to the Class of 2023 graduates: Kristen Adamczuk, Diana Almeida, Drew Arrowood, Denise Badgett, Leyla Bahmanyar, Steven Bryant, Jaymond Bryant-Herron, Micki Castle, Safiya Cherry, Patricia Cramer, Leslie Crincoli, Deborah Cudney, Angela Davis-Steffens, Kimberly DeLaney, Ashlyn Dempsey, Allen DiRusso, Mike Doggette, Monica Drake, Tammy Drake, Kerri Foret, Kenneth Foret, Cary J. Gluf, Leslie LaFoy Griffin, Marie Grochoske, Jessica Henderson, Michael Hooten, Doreen House Hunter, Joanna Hutula, Scott Hutula, Linda Jackson, Macy Jordan, Robert Kirk, Elizabeth Kirk, Boz Levesque, Susan Levesque, Linda Lewis-Chininga, Regan McLean, Corey Meyer, Janae Moore, Anthony K. Moragne, DeAnna Morris, Denise Morris, Stephanie Morris, Debbie Moss, Clay Moye, Sheila Moye, Rebecca Hannah Patten, William B. Patten, Jr., Stockton Perry, Kishor Phadnis, Sampada Phadnis, Nicole Ransley, Jody Rich, Darius Robinson, Tammy Robinson, Lamont Savage, Troy Taylor, Lakshmi Deepak Thalanki, and Steve Wainstead.

For more information about the Concord 101 program, visit the official website at concordnc.gov/Concord101.

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What is the state bird of Illinois?

Post author By
Post date 28 November 2023

What is the state bird of Illinois?

Illinois, known as the “Land of Lincoln,” is not only famous for its rich history and vibrant cities but also for its state symbols. One of the most beloved state symbols is the state bird, which holds a special place in the hearts of Illinois residents. So, what is the state bird of Illinois?

The state bird of Illinois is the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). This stunning bird, with its vibrant red plumage and distinctive crest, was officially designated as the state bird in 1929. The northern cardinal is a year-round resident of Illinois and can be found throughout the state, from urban areas to rural landscapes.

FAQ:

Q: Why was the northern cardinal chosen as the state bird of Illinois?
A: The northern cardinal was chosen as the state bird due to its prevalence in Illinois and its striking appearance. The bright red color of the male cardinal represents the state’s official colors, while its song adds a beautiful melody to the Illinois landscape.

Q: Are there any interesting facts about the northern cardinal?
A: Yes, there are! The northern cardinal is known for its distinctive “cheer-cheer-cheer” song, which is often heard during the spring and summer months. Additionally, only the male cardinal displays the iconic red plumage, while the female has a more muted brown color.

Q: Where can I spot a northern cardinal in Illinois?
A: Northern cardinals can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, parks, and even suburban backyards. Their preference for dense shrubs and trees makes them relatively easy to spot, especially during the breeding season.

Q: Is the northern cardinal the state bird of any other states?
A: Yes, the northern cardinal is the state bird of six other states: Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. Its widespread presence and striking appearance make it a popular choice for state bird designation.

In conclusion, the northern cardinal proudly represents Illinois as its state bird. Its vibrant red plumage and melodic song make it a beloved symbol of the state’s natural beauty. Whether you’re strolling through a park or gazing out your window, keep an eye out for this magnificent bird and appreciate its presence in the Land of Lincoln.

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How does North Carolina support local libraries?

Post author By
Post date 28 November 2023

How does North Carolina support local libraries?

North Carolina, like many other states in the United States, recognizes the importance of local libraries as community hubs for education, information, and cultural enrichment. The state government, along with various organizations and initiatives, actively supports and promotes the development and sustainability of local libraries across North Carolina.

One of the primary ways in which North Carolina supports local libraries is through state funding. The North Carolina State Library, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, provides financial assistance to public libraries throughout the state. This funding helps libraries maintain their collections, upgrade technology, and offer a wide range of programs and services to their communities.

In addition to financial support, the state also offers professional development opportunities for library staff. The State Library provides training and resources to help librarians enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest trends in library services. This ensures that local libraries can provide high-quality and relevant services to their patrons.

Furthermore, North Carolina encourages collaboration among libraries through regional library systems. These systems facilitate resource sharing, interlibrary loans, and cooperative purchasing, allowing libraries to offer a more extensive collection of materials and services to their users. This collaborative approach ensures that even smaller libraries can provide access to a diverse range of resources.

FAQ:

Q: What is the North Carolina State Library?
A: The North Carolina State Library is a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. It provides support, resources, and funding to public libraries across the state.

Q: How does North Carolina fund local libraries?
A: North Carolina provides financial assistance to local libraries through the State Library. This funding helps libraries maintain their collections, upgrade technology, and offer programs and services.

Q: How does North Carolina support professional development for library staff?
A: The State Library offers training and resources to help library staff enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest trends in library services.

Q: What are regional library systems?
A: Regional library systems in North Carolina facilitate collaboration among libraries by enabling resource sharing, interlibrary loans, and cooperative purchasing. This allows libraries to offer a broader range of materials and services to their users.

In conclusion, North Carolina recognizes the vital role that local libraries play in communities and provides support in various ways. Through state funding, professional development opportunities, and regional library systems, North Carolina ensures that local libraries can continue to serve as valuable resources for education, information, and cultural enrichment.

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Abilene Police Department Announces Finalists for Chief Position

Post author By Howard Rhodes
Post date 28 November 2023

The City of Abilene recently revealed the four candidates in contention for the Abilene Police Department’s chief position. After receiving applications from 30 individuals across seven different states, City Manager Robert Hanna and his team have narrowed down the selection to these final contenders:

– Daniel Carolla, currently serving as the US Manager of the Meta Law Enforcement Response Team in Austin, Texas.
– Albert Garcia, the Chief of Police at the Levelland Police Department in Levelland, Texas.
– James Golden, a Captain at the Greensboro Police Department in Greensboro, North Carolina.
– Rondell Seratte, currently holding the position of Assistant Chief of Police at the Lawton Police Department in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Contrary to expectations, no candidates from within the Abilene Police Department made it to the final selection. Interim Police Chief Doug Wrenn did not apply for the permanent position, leaving an opportunity for external candidates to showcase their potential. While two internal applicants emerged initially, one withdrew their application, and the other failed to qualify for the finalist stage.

To ensure a thorough and comprehensive evaluation, the selected candidates will be visiting Abilene on December 11 for interviews with the Abilene Police Department. City Manager Robert Hanna aims to conclude the selection process and announce the final appointment by the end of this year.

This decision to consider external candidates brings fresh perspectives and diverse experiences to the table, which can contribute to the development and growth of the Abilene Police Department. The future chief will have the opportunity to bring in innovative ideas and approaches that may not have been explored within the department previously. This selection process also reinforces the City of Abilene’s commitment to finding the best candidate for the position, irrespective of their origins.

FAQ:

1. Will the new chief be selected from within the Abilene Police Department?
– No, the interim police chief did not apply for the position, and the two internal applicants did not make it to the finalist stage.

2. How many candidates have been shortlisted for the position?
– Four candidates have been selected as the finalists for the Abilene Police Department chief position.

3. When will the final appointment be announced?
– City Manager Robert Hanna expects to announce the final appointment by the end of this year.