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Kimball Chief of Police Mark Simpson resigns from his post

Mark Simpson, the Chief of Police for the city of Kimball, has turned in his letter of resignation from his position, according to Mayor James Schnell with a copy of that letter being released to this paper.

“It is truly with a heavy heart that I resign as Chief of Police of the City of Kimball,” Simpson’s resignation letter began. “I want the council to know that it has been a privilege for me to be able to be part of your lives and the lives of the citizens of Kimball.”

The letter goes on to show Simpson’s remorse of only being apart of Kimball for a shorter period of time than desired.

“My one regret is that I was not able to serve you longer. I feel that we need to trust in our city officials and let them do their job as they serve diligently for the future of the city. I want to thank you for all you’ve done for me and my family. I want to thank you for the opportunity that you gave me. I’m sad that I did not uphold my side of the bargain,” Simpson’s letter states.

Although the tone of the letter would indicate that Simpson’s efforts for the city were less than desirable, Mayor Schnell sees many good things about Simpson’s time as police chief.

“I think he did a great job. I was really sorry to see him and his family decide whether he wanted to live here or pursue a job elsewhere,” Schnell said.

Captain Darren Huff of the Kimball Police Department also feels that though there has been much speculation lately aimed at Simpson, he was good for the city.

“I feel like-- and I’ve heard this from numerous people too-- that he was probably the best chief that they had ever had in the community up to him. I think he did good things here, and his mindset was to clean up a lot of things. I think he was a good chief, and he did a great job while he was here,” Captain Huff said.

The City council will still have to vote to accept Simpson’s resignation at their next meeting on Monday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. Also, at that time, the council will vote on Mayor Schnell’s nomination for the new chief for the police department.

More information on Simpson’s replacement will follow after that meeting.

 
 
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