The Babbitt City Council held an emergency meeting last Friday to discuss the path forward following news of police chief Troy Bissonette’s move to Ely’s police force.
Babbitt’s police department may also see additional vacancies, said clerk-treasurer Nancy Sanford.
Although Sanford reported the city had not received any official letters of recognition at the time of the meeting, she cited “reliable information” that indicated other officers may also resign.
“Chief Bissonette did tell me that another officer was offered a position but did not yet have a starting date,” Sanford said.
Throughout the period of turnover, Babbitt’s police force will receive support from other local departments to ensure necessary coverage.
“I know safety is a huge, huge concern for everyone,” said Mayor Andrea Zupancich. She has begun conversations with St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay and others to determine next steps.
“I spoke with Sheriff Gordon Ramsay yesterday, and they are willing and able to help us fill in shifts as needed, once we have a better idea of what’s going on,” Zupancich said.
Gilbert’s police department is also “willing to help” through the mutual aid program, said Zupancich, which allows regional departments to provide assistance to one another across jurisdictional boundaries. East Range may also provide support through this program.
Zupancich aims to engage in further discussions with Gilbert’s chief of police, Ty Techar, to gain additional insight and recommendations for handling the possible
