Chief Barrett Sworn In, Reworks OPD Incentive Pay
The Olney City Council formally swore in Bryan Barrett as police chief during its Nov. 24 meeting, marking the official start of a new chapter for the department after months of leadership transition.
City Attorney Bill Myers administered the oath as Mayor Rue Rogers, council members and Chief Barrett’s family - wife Nikole, son Taylor and grandson Beau - looked on. Chief Barrett began work Nov. 17 following a lengthy search by the council to replace former chief Dan Birbeck, who took the police chief job in Vernon in May.
After the ceremony, the Council unanimously appointed Chief Barrett as Olney’s primary emergency management coordinator, a role traditionally held by the police chief. Chief Barrett accepted on the spot, saying he would direct emergency operations, oversee preparedness planning and pursue grant funding as needed. The Council also named Olney Police Officer Matt England as secondary coordinator.
Later in the meeting, Chief Barrett made his first major policy recommendation as chief, urging approval of a new certificate pay program to reward officer training, experience and professional advancement. The plan covers peace officers, dispatchers, animal control and code enforcement staff.
“I believe that, especially as … a young starting- out employee, that’s your goal is to get to that next step and, and to have people … rewarded for their drive.,” he said. “I personally believe it is the best slap on the shoulder we can give a good job.”
Under the system, employees earn monthly stipends for state certifications — basic, intermediate, advanced and master — based on training and years of service. Detective Autumn Thames told council members the estimated cost is about $6,600 per year, assuming current staffing levels.
Councilmember Steven Nurre said the pay program would likely reduce overtime and improve retention. “It’ll pay for itself,” he said.
Chief Barrett praised Detective Thames for developing the program and said professional recognition motivates officers. “People want to grow, and they should be rewarded for that,” he said.