06-09-2025 Agenda Packet Cc - regular meeting

Home Browse Search

AGENDA ITEM Date: June 9, 2025 Title: Hire Police Officer Presenter: Correy Farniok, Police Chief Section: Consent Agenda Purpose: The purpose of this action item is to gain approval to hire a full-time Police Officer. Item: 4 2. Background: As part of its ongoing effort to recruit qualified police officers for the Orono Police Department, the City of Orono established the Police Cadet Program in 2003. This program provides part-time, entry-level experience for individuals pursuing a career in law enforcement. Cadet positions are part-time and non -benefited, with flexible scheduling to accommodate class attendance. Cadets typically work between 16 to 24 hours per week. Terms of Employment: • Must be enrolled in a law enforcement education program • Must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 City of Orono Provides: • Uniforms and equipment for each Cadet • Wages To encourage continued participation and long-term commitment, cadets in this program will be eligible for a school reimbursement incentive of $2,500 per year, up to a maximum of $10,000. This reimbursement will be awarded upon successful hire as a police officer and completion of all program requirements. In addition to the financial incentive, cadets benefit from hands-on training and mentorship within the department, providing valuable experience and preparation for a successful transition into the role of police officer. 3. Recruitment: The selection process for the position was an internal process. This is a promotion from Police Cadet to Police Officer. First round interviews are completed by a panel of currently serving officers and second round interviews by the Chief of Police. Police Officer applicants must also successfully complete a Psychological Exam, a Physical (Pre -employment medical) exam and passed the MN Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) licensing exam. 4. Recommended Candidate: Kohlton Beck has been employed as a Police Cadet with our department since 2023. Beck has been working part-time for the last two years while attending college. Beck has completed his AAS in Law Enforcement from Alexandria Technical College and has passed the POST licensing requirements. Beck is excited about the opportunity to work for the Orono Police Department as a police officer. Beck is the first to be promoted from the cadet program to police officer. Recommended Compensation: I recommend to hire Kohlton Beck as a Full -Time Police Officer with the effective start date of June 23, 2025. Starting rate of $37.15/hour start (LELS Local 40 Agreement pay scale). As a full- 26