Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties

Marenisco hires township police chief, after one-year search

By P.J. GLISSON

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Marenisco TOWNSHIP - After nearly a year without an official full-time lead in law enforcement, the Marenisco Board of Trustees on Monday unanimously approved the hire of James Webber as the town's new police chief.

Webber, who was hired as part-time support about a month ago, will start his new full-time role on July 1. Monday's vote was unanimous with town clerk Donna Kenney describing Webber's service thus far as "just awesome."

"I do love your township," said Webber. "You've got a tremendous amount to offer people."

Brandon Tauer will continue serving as interim chief until Webber assumes the duties. Tauer is also a full time deputy with the Gogebic County Sheriff's Office.

Town board members could have approved Webber as police chief at the May 17 meeting. However, with the town clerk on vacation the action was moved to the June meeting.

Webber is from Bessemer. He and his wife have property in Marenisco Township and plan to purchase a larger residence there in the future.

The search to fill the police chief position started nearly one year ago when Bruce Mahler retired from the position after 16 years on the job. Mahler was elected town supervisor in the November general election.

Mahler previously reported that Webber was willing to work either full or part time. Trustee Dave Hagen asked about the latter option.

Webber said it was up to the board but added that the township population is increasing.

"I would caution you that if you do go part time, you might end up having problems," he said.

Webber said he planned to resign Tuesday from his job as a part-time police officer and volunteer firefighter with the Ironwood Department of Public Safety. Prior to that, he worked as a Gogebic County Sheriff's Office deputy for 27 previous years, along with eight years of service with the U.S. Army.

Webber received an associates degree from Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York, and a bachelor's degree from State University of New York. His law enforcement and military training includes hostage rescue, domestic violence, diving, K-9 patrol and several other areas.

The starting salary was advertised at $21 to $25 per hour with a full benefit package. Mahler has the authority to negotiate the final terms of Webber's contract and said Monday that he expects the offer will reflect his years of experience.

"Thank you, Brandon, for filling in," said Mahler to the interim chief, with other board members also voicing gratitude.