THATCHER — Thatcher is looking for a new Police chief.
The town posted the job search to its social media Wednesday evening. The opening is the result of current Chief Shaffen Woods upcoming retirement and taking a new position as senior supervisor of Security for Freeport-McMoRan at the Safford mining operation.
In a text exchange with Gila Valley Central, Woods said his goal is “to make it a smooth transition for the department and the town.”
“I will stay on at the town to help the transition with (the) interim (chief), help cover shifts as needed, (and) also help the new chief get started once they hire one (time permitting, of course). I would like to make it to April 23, if possible, which is my 25th year anniversary, but we will see if it works out that way or not,” Woods wrote.
He said his first day with Freeport is Jan. 29.
“I’m excited for the opportunity that Freeport-McMoRan has given me, and I’m looking forward to seeing how I can contribute to their organization and others in the community,” Woods said.
The Town Council will be asked to appoint an interim Police chief during its next regular meeting, Jan. 22.
