MADRAS CITY COUNCIL APPROVES DIRECTOR OF POLICE SERVICES

Date:  August 8, 2022 – Immediate Release
Contact:   Charo Miller, HR & Administrative Director 541-325-0312

Madras, OR – At the July 27th Council meeting, City Staff received approval from the Council to appoint a Director of Police Services over Madras Police Department while the current Police Chief is out on medical leave. Originally, a Madras PD Sergeant was appointed as Interim Police Chief, however, after a few weeks in the position, it was evident that removing him from detective and patrol work created a deficit for the community. Therefore, the decision was made to seek out someone with law enforcement experience who could oversee the day-to-day operations of the department and perform the administrative functions of the Chief’s office. Staff turned to the Oregon Association Chiefs of Police for assistance.  

“Through a referral and interview process, retired police chief Steve Bartol, was offered the opportunity to assist Madras PD as the Director of Police Services,” stated HR Director Charo Miller. “He has a wide-range of experience that includes everything from dispatching, to patrol, investigations, drugs, gang and vice units, and ultimately the Chief of Police for Milwaukie Police Department.” 

“The primary difference between a police chief and a director of police services is that a police chief is a sworn law enforcement officer, while a police director is employed in a civilian capacity,” stated Mayor Richard Ladeby. “A police chief has legal permission to make arrests, perform traffic stops, carry a firearm, wear a law enforcement officer badge and drive a police car. Police directors do not have those same legal permissions. They perform administrative functions such as attend meetings, process purchases for the department, pursue efficiency and safety strategies, etc.”

Mr. Bartol recently provided similar assistance to the City of Ontario helping them complete an evidence room investigation, prepare a new budget and get them set up for their incoming chief. “Appointing temporary or interim police directors or chiefs is not uncommon, especially in smaller departments where there’s fewer staff and officers. I enjoy providing this service – it’s my way of giving back to a profession that gave so much to me.” Mr. Bartol is scheduled to begin his service with Madras PD on August 8th for an undetermined time.

Madras PD is currently seeking certified lateral police officers and reserve officers. If you’re interested in an opportunity with Madras Police Department, visit https://www.ci.madras.or.us/hr/page/job-opportunities-city-madras-police-department. 

Steve Bartol is a graduate of the Portland State University Executive and Leadership program, the Southern Police Institute's Administrative Officer Course and the FBI National Academy. He retired from Milwaukie Police Department in 2019 after 33 years of law enforcement service. He and his wife have been married for 32 years and have two adult children.