WESTBOROUGH – A decision on whether Todd Minardi remains an interim police chief could take place on Tuesday, Sept. 12.
That’s when he is scheduled to appear before the Select Board to make a presentation about the department. After that, the board could decide whether to drop the interim from Minardi’s title or begin a search process.
During the Aug. 8 meeting, board members discussed whether to conduct a search as noted in the town charter or use the pathway created by then-Chief Jeff Lourie that promoted Minardi to deputy chief.
According to Town Manager Kristi Williams, the options on the police chief hiring process have been reviewed by town counsel.
Board member Shelby Marshall said she supports the process created by Lourie but would like to include an open session with an opportunity to ask questions.
Fellow member Ian Johnson said the promotion process would be in the “town’s best interest.”
Member Patrick Welch said he “felt strongly about the town charter,” adding that when he spoke to residents, there was “almost a 50-50 split” between a search and the promotion process.
However, he said he would also support the promotion process and have a Q&A with Minardi.
Chair Sean Keogh also backs internal promotion over a search process.
“It does not make sense to do a search just to do a search,” he said. “You look at outside candidates if you want a change.”
