GRAVETTE — Andrew Bower, Gravette's police chief, was relieved of his duties this morning by Gravette mayor, Kurt Maddox. No specific reason for the firing was made public by the mayor except for the need of a change in leadership at the department.
According to the mayor, Sgt. Chuck Skaggs was appointed interim chief for the city.
The mayor did meet with the council in executive session at last night's committee of the whole meeting to discuss personnel matters but no action was taken following the closed session.
"This morning I made the decision to terminate Gravette Police Chief Andrew Bower, effective immediately," Maddox wrote in a release. "Ultimately, this decision reflects my assessment that a change in leadership of this department was necessary at this time. I do sincerely appreciate Mr. Bower’s efforts here in our city and wish him well."
The releases went on to state: "Sergeant Chuck Skaggs has been appointed to act as the Interim police chief, and I have complete confidence in his ability to lead the force. There will be no degradation, whatsoever, in the service and protection our officers provide."
No mention of the firing was made at last night's council committee of the whole meeting, according to Susan Holland, reporter for the Westside Eagle Observer.
"They [the council members and the mayor] did go into executive session for a short time to discuss personnel but said, when they came out, 'No action was taken,'" according to Holland.
Holland said the council members talked about shortages on the police force since one of Gravette's officers has recently been hired at Bentonville and another is on military leave for another 30 days and possibly up to 120 days. With school starting soon, the city will need two officers to fulfill its contract with the school for school resource officers.
Bower was hired as Gravette's police chief three years ago under then-mayor Byron Warren at the recommendation of a special search committee. He started as Gravette's police chief in July of 2013