I was sorry to find that our Chief of Police, Chief Skinner, is going to retire. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the Chief. He mostly took it easy on me when I was new to the Council, patiently explaining the ins and outs of the policeing business. He reserved his pointed comments for when I deserved it…:) To me, the two things that show just how professional he is are these:
1. As a business man and manager, I admire the quality of his staff. One of the often missed marks (imho) of a good manager is his dedication to making himself dispensible. That takes a confident and capable person and any organization is always better for it.
2. As a Council member, I appreciated that I never had to worry too much about crazy things coming my way from the Police department. Sure, there were problems from time to time but that’s the nature of the police biz in modern America.
I hope the Chief enjoys his retirement. Between his service in the Secret Service, Fairfax and Manassas, he’s earned it.
God bless.
February 1, 2010 at 9:39 pm
I too shall miss the Chief – a fine man indeed he is! I had to chuckle when looking at the article that he is only three years older than me. I best not tell him how old I thought he was 🙂
I also hope when we look to a replacement Chief, we look in-house first. We have some fine Division Captains who would make an excellent Chief.
February 1, 2010 at 11:04 pm
Agreed. And nothing against what candidates will rise from with the ranks, but look how well the City was served by an “outsider” this last time.
I DO agree very much Andy that Chief Skinner hs surrounded himself with a great staff and done much to improve them.
February 2, 2010 at 8:38 am
I appreciate the community policing, the push for more Neighborhood Watches, the great animal control and shelter, involvement with the Northern Virginia Gang Task Force, and emergency preparedness. I remember his coming to talk to a Unity in the Community meeting. He has truly been a partner with the community, and pushed for the leadership development and professionalism of his police force. I can think of several people who would make a great chief, thanks to his mentoring. Great memories of his wife Shirley at Weems Elementary School, too! I wish them well.
February 3, 2010 at 11:57 am
I have always thought the MCPD is one of our fair city’s selling points. Every interaction that I have had with a member of the force has been professional, and is a reflection of the Chief. I have had many opportunites to speak with Chief Skinner over the years, and have always come away with the thought “we are lucky to have this guy”. I will be sorry to see him retire. However, considering the quality force he has built during his tenure, Manassas should attract some high-quality applicants. Good luck Chief! Fair Winds and Following Seas!