Sparta Accepting In-House Applications To Replace Chief Goff

The Sparta Board of Aldermen has opened in-house applications to fill its police chief position.

Chief Doug Goff will retire this June. Mayor Jerry Lowery said he wanted to consider city officers before welcoming outside candidates for the job.

“Under my mayorship, I have been trying to let people know that you can work with the city of Sparta and work your way up,” Lowery said. “So, we want to give the current police officers on the force the to apply for this position before we open it to outside entities.”

Lowery said he has not heard of any interest from current officer but expects that to change once the position is officially posted. Lowery said the chief role will open to outside candidates if there are no qualified candidates.

Lowery said inquiring assistance from MTAS to facilitate the search may be an option down the road. Lowery said the city is in no rush to to find a replacement since Goff remains on staff.