Salem’s new police chief was sworn in during Monday’s city council meeting

Salem’s new Police Chief Susan Miller was sworn in by Mayor Nick Farley on Monday evening.

Farley noted the historical significance of the event.

“Five years ago today we swore in our first female mayor in the city of Salem, and five years ago today we will swore in our first female police chief. It is historic for Salem, and it could not be more deserved for someone who has worked hard and diligently for the past twenty years.”

Miller is now in her 29th year on the force. She started as a police officer and worked her way up to deputy chief before being appointed chief. She thought back to her youth as she made remarks to those in the council chamber.

“Ten-year-old me, who used to dress up in the plastic cowboy belts with the Barbie and the head ripped off as a weapon, is very excited today,” Miller said with a laugh. “I thank you all for your support. I see many faces who have been here and helped and guided me. This is as much your success as it is mine, and I appreciate it all.

After the meeting, Miller said filling the three vacancies in the department was her top priority. They include her replacement as deputy chief and two open police officer positions. Miller hopes to have all positions filled by the end of the year.

The council, without any discussion, gave final approval to the city’s tax levy for next year’s property tax bills. This is 3.99 percent higher than last year’s levy, but is likely to be reduced because the maximum increase allowed under tax caps this year is 3.4 percent.

Mayor Farley appointed SCHS teacher Ivy Balla to an opening at the Salem Historical Society. The board also agreed to sell surplus phones from the old telephone system that had recently been retired.

The board agreed to take the phones from their old phone system and sell them online.

City Manager Annette Sola says the city will face more expensive repairs to Carlyle Lake’s waterline. A pump has failed. The city recently replaced an engine. Public Works Director Travis Sanders says the line is still operating without the pump, but likely won’t be needed for a while due to heavy rain on Monday.