WESTBOROUGH – One month into the new fiscal year, and the reorganization at the Westborough Police Department is moving along.
Chief Todd Minardi said that two out of the five available slots for the new rank of corporal have been filled; the other three slots should be filled after a promotions exam that was scheduled for Monday, Aug. 5.
Minardi introduced the rank as a first step to supervisory positions. Each corporal attends a two-week supervisor training program at Roger Williams University, and each is mentored by a senior supervisor.
The department also recently added a fourth lieutenant to its roster. Each shift is now staffed by four patrol officers, a corporal, sergeant and lieutenant.
“We need that uniform coverage,” said Minardi.
The department is now trying to fill three patrol officer vacancies. Minardi said that conditional offers have been tendered; once the applicants clear background checks, they will be sent to the academy for six months training, followed by a probation period with the department.
All told, it could take up to a year before a patrol officer hits the street.
“Recruiting has been a challenge, not just here, but nationwide,” said Minardi.
To help with recruiting, the department recently came out with a brochure, as well as a video with WestboroughTV.