BRIDGEPORT >> In a close vote Oct. 10, borough council decided not to renew Chief of Police Bob Ruxton’s employment agreement.
The motion passed 4-3, with council members Mark Barbee, Tony Heyl and JoAnn Gadzicki opposed.
Ruxton has served approximately two and half years in Bridgeport, first as interim chief following the departure of Chief John Dougherty, and, later, on a permanent basis. His contract is set to expire Nov. 27.
After the motion to not renew the contract was made, Mayor Ted Pruskowski made a statement in support of Ruxton to council and the dozens of residents in attendance.
“I was at no time consulted regarding this decision although as mayor, I am in charge of the Police Department, including Chief Ruxton. I do not support this decision and believe it’s not in the best interest of the Borough of Bridgeport, although the decision rests with council,” Pruskowski said.
The mayor also highlighted some of the Ruxton’s contributions, such as working countless hours beyond his 40-hour work week without additional compensation, and the fact that no new grievances or lawsuits have been filed by any officers during his time as chief.
Council members JoAnn Gadzicki and Tony Heyl, as well as several residents, also spoke against allowing Ruxton’s contract to run out.
“I don’t believe this is best for the residents,” said resident Kyle Shenk, who questioned what the hiring process will be and if the vacancy in the chief’s position be publicly posted.
Council was unable to provide details of the process, although Councilman Bill Lawless stated that an interview had already been conducted during the evening. The interviewee was someone who had applied for the position two years ago, he said.
Other residents recommended that a citizen review board be established prior to any decision on anew hire.
“I have grown very fond of the people of Bridgeport,” Ruxton said after the vote. “I like Bridgeport and liked working with the men and women of the Bridgeport police department. I like being the chief of police with the Bridgeport Police Department.
Tensions ran high among council members after the motion passed.
“I am sitting here sick in my stomach and utter disappointment with fellow council members for their total disregard and disrespect as to what the residents and the public are saying to them,” Gadzicki said. “They’re not listening to what the mayor is recommending, when he has the most insight.”
However, Council member Nicole Pierce and Vice President Randy Bennett suggested that the residents who spoke in Ruskin’s favor might not represent the public as a whole.
“We can lead this town in a direction that is moving us forward, and I thank Chief Ruxton for his help and assistance. I do talk to residents, and I don’t get that same feel from them,” Pierce said.
“I hear what you’re saying, but my personal experience and the experience of people I am talking to who may or may not be here is different than yours,” Bennett added. “So I don’t think you can dismiss the decision based on tonight’s attendance in a borough of 4,500 people.”
