McMinnville officials accepted the pending retirement of Police Chief Bryan Denton, but no one is happy to see him go.
Mayor Ben Newman stated, “Good police chiefs are hard to find. They have to be well rounded, educated, a critical thinker, a team builder, dedicated, stern yet compassionate, and passionate about their job. It is a time-consuming endeavor that is centered around teamwork. The chief oversees the operations and budget of the police department and is therefore praised for successes and held responsible for failures. We are fortunate Bryan Denton has been praised for his successes.
“Chief Denton has worked diligently to bring a team of experienced officers and staff together to keep McMinnville safe and provide excellent public service. The programs he administers are thoughtful and impactful in a positive way. Recently he has pushed for greater accountability by acquiring body cameras for officers. This will protect our officers and the public, which is a win-win. Chief Denton has done so much for our community he is truly one of a kind. I understand his decision to step down and spend more time with his family. They are lucky to have him. He will be greatly missed and difficult to replace. I thank him for his tireless and dedicated service to the great city of McMinnville,” Newman concluded.
Other city officials share in Newman’s positive assessment of Chief Denton, who is scheduled to stay on the job until the end of the year.
Vice Mayor Ryle Chastain:
“Bryan has been an unbelievable asset to our law enforcement community. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him over the last six years and, while he certainly deserves it, I am saddened to see him retire. Replacing 40 years of experience will be difficult but plans are in place to begin the search for our next police chief. Thank you for your service, Bryan.”
Alderman
Steve Harvey:
“I’m happy for Bryan, but truly sorry to see him go. He’s an excellent chief. He has a great relationship with the staff and with the citizens of McMinnville. He’s always made that job look way easier than it really is. He will be missed.”
Alderman
Rachel Kirby:
“I’d like to thank Chief Denton for being a good and faithful servant to our community. He has steadily guided the department all these years and it has been my privilege to work with him. He will be missed.”
Alderman Mike Neal:
“I appreciate his long tenure with the city. He has done an exceptional job and has been a pleasure to work with during my time on the board. He has always been well prepared for our meetings. His shoes will be tough to fill.”
Alderman
Kate Alsbrook:
“It is an honor to be a member of the community that Chief Denton has served so graciously. I am thankful for his tireless service protecting our citizens and his leadership to his fellow officers. I wish him a long and healthy retirement.”
Alderman
Everett Brock:
“He has been a credit to our city and Police Department for years. Hate to lose him, but wish him well in the future.”
Denton’s law enforcement career spans 39 years, with the last nine being as police chief. His retirement begins Dec. 31.
