Scott Keigley Back in Chatfield

At the April 13 meeting of the Chatfield City Council the new police chief was sworn in. Councilor Dave Frank was absent.

Mayor John McBroom administered the oath of office to Chatfield’s new police chief, Scott Keigley. His mother Virginia pinned the badge on his chest. Prior to the city council meeting there was an open house to welcome the new police chief. Keigley was first hired in 2011 as a patrol officer in Chatfield. He served in that position for 12 years when he resigned to take a position with Fillmore County. He never fully left Chatfield as he was authorized to serve Chatfield as a training officer and as a part-time officer as needed. Keigley will replace Shane Fox who recently retired.

Other Business in Brief

• Ambulance Director Rocky Burnett explained they have two good candidates for part-time EMT positions. The hire of both Janoah Haugen and Sean Guingon was approved as recommended. Burnett said both of the new hires know these are temporary positions dependent on grant funding which runs out early in 2027.
• Mary Beth Magyar introduced her environmental artist program. Her plans are to work on mosaics for Chatfield Center for the Arts and for city hall. The designs are based on karst landscape. She explained there will be regular hours during which people can work with her. She will be at the markets every Thursday.
• An offer to purchase 1484 Enterprise Dr. for $60,000 was approved.
• Mayor McBroom read the Arbor Day Proclamation declaring April 24 as Arbor Day. All citizens are urged to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands. Brian Burkholder said 11 trees have been ordered to be planted. The city has been a member of Tree City USA for 34 years. Last year 31 trees were planted and several were removed or pruned. Last year the city received the Growth Award which recognizes Tree City USA communities for outstanding tree care and community engagement.
• Approval was granted for the Auxiliary to place flags in City Park for Memorial Day.
• The request from Rochester Area Disc Golf Association to host a disc golf tournament at Mill Creek Park & Groen Park on May 30 was approved.
• Library donations totaling $325 were accepted to be used for capital purchases for the public library.
• Annual Chatfield Fire Department Fund Drive donations in the amount of $2,030 were accepted.
• John Armenta was appointed to the Library Board for a term to expire January 31, 2027.