Council ok’s hiring new chief of police

Bringing the months-long search for a new police chief to an end, the Nome Common Council last Monday approved an employment agreement with William Crockett to take the position at the helm of the Nome Police Department. Crockett has worked at the department first as an experienced investigator and filled in as interim chief of police after Mike

Heintzelman retired from the job last fall. Prior to the council’s vote, Gray Harrison spoke during public comments in support of Crockett.

“He's been an excellent acting chief,” said Harrison. “He's steering the department in the right direction. And I think you guys are making a good pick with him and just wanting to provide my support as a citizen and as one of his employees.”

The job is an exempt position and the contract is valid for two years, starting Feb. 12 until Feb. 11, 2026, with compensation set at $185,000, with a 3 percent per annum salary increase each year of service, and 30 days of paid leave. Other benefits include health insurance coverage, life insurance, use of a city vehicle and a family rec center pass.

The council unanimously approved the agreement.

The council also approved an employment agreement with Cynthia Gray for the position of Human Resources Manager for the City, a position that also has not been filled for a lengthy time. The employment contract is valid for three years, spells out that it’s an exempt position and the annual compensation was set for $115,000, but the employee is eligible for a salary review after six months. After an annual evaluation the employee may receive a salary increase. Benefits include health care, PERS, life insurance and Rec Center passes.

Prior to the regular meeting the