As previously reported on WTSB, the Smithfield Town Council made if official Tuesday night when they named Michael Scott as the new town manager. Citing his executive management experience, commitment to fiscal responsibility, and his responsiveness to the citizenry and business community, the announcement was made during the monthly meeting of the town council.
Scott has served as Smithfield’s Police Chief since 2009 and has over 30 years of government experience working in Iowa and North Carolina.
Human Resource Director and Public Information Officer Tim Kerigan described Scott’s strengths as a visionionary of community policing, team-building, organizational management and law enforcement accreditation. “He led the Smithfield Police Department through its first national accreditation (CALEA) in March of 2015. Since his hire as Police Chief, the Town of Smithfield has also witnessed a decrease in violent crimes by over thirty percent,” according to the press release. “He is expected to expand the community interaction and communication philosophies instilled in the police department throughout the rest of Town government.”
“Following an extensive nationwide search, we are pleased and confident to know that we have found the best candidate within our own family,” states Mayor Andy Moore. The duties of Town Manager will take effect immediately. In addition, the Town will begin the search for the Town’s next Police Chief. Captain Keith Powell will serve as Interim Police Chief until the position is filled permanently.
Scott holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Kaplan University, a Master’s Degree in Law Enforcement Justice Administration from Western Illinois University and a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate from Western Illinois University in Executive Administration. Scott resides in Smithfield with his wife, Peggy.
He replaces Paul Sabiston who was fired in August 2015 in a 4-to-3 vote. Scott becomes the 8th town manager in Smithfield is the past 30 years.
