By News-Register staff • 

Amity will keep its police department

AMITY - The Amity City Council voted unanimously Wednesday night to continue operating its own police department rather than contract with the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office.

Between 75 and 100 citizens attended the council meeting held in the Community Center. More than 25 spoke to the issue, and not one of them favored the contract option.

When the law enforcement services matter came up on the agenda, Councilor Caralyn Miller quickly made a motion to keep the city's police department intact. It was seconded by Max Walker. There was brief discussion followed by the vote.

Mayor Michael Cape said the "loud voice" coming from residents who spoke was heard, and the citizens had made it clear they are satisfied with their police department and not interested in having the sheriff's office provide service.

Chief Dan Brown will retire Dec. 31 after almost 15 years on the job following a 17-year stint with the McMinnville Police Department. He left the force as a lieutenant.

Brown has been assisted by Sgt. James Clark and a six-member reserve team.  A former city councilor, Clark launched his law enforcement career as a reserve with the sheriff's office. He joined Amity's force as a cadet, then became a reserve, patrol officer and sergeant.

Clark and Brown, in addition to some reserves, attended the meeting, as did Sheriff Tim Svenson.

The city will begin an immediate search for Brown's replacement.

Clark announced on his Facebook page that he will apply for the job.

"If the city chooses me as chief I look forward in continuing to serve the community," he said. "If they find someone who they believe will serve better in that capacity I will embrace the change. I simply want what is best for the community and our police department."

See Friday's print edition for additional details.

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