By Melinda Munson

After a hiring freeze caused by COVID-19, the municipality is now advertising for a new police chief. A job announcement for the department head was posted on the municipality’s website on April 9. 

The full time position starts at $38.49 per hour and qualifies for benefits. According to the announcement, “The position is open until filled.” 

Acting Police Chief Jerry Reddick said he applied for the job. 

Reddick temporarily took over the department in January after Ray Leggett’s departure in October 2020. Leggett had served Skagway for 15 years when he said he was told by the borough manager, Brad Ryan, to resign or be fired. The municipality will not comment on personnel matters.   

Skagway has four police officer positions, including the chief of police. Currently, three of the positions are filled. The police chief is expected to manage the department as well as perform patrol duties.

The borough waited to advertise the vacancy until the 2020 budget was reworked with the expectation of another lost cruise ship season. According to Ryan, COVID-19 was also a concern in the hiring process. A majority of Skagway’s adults are now vaccinated against the disease, making it safer for applicants to visit the borough.