Ryan Frost took over as Winthrop’s interim police chief just a few days ago, but town officials already have decided to make his appointment permanent.

Town Manager Peter Nielsen announced Friday that Frost has been selected to replace outgoing Police Chief Joseph Young, who announced last month that he was retiring after 29 years with the department.

The terms of Frost’s contract were not immediately available.

Frost is scheduled to be sworn in during a ceremony at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the Town Office.

“I can’t remember a more unanimously supported selection,” Nielsen wrote in an email to town councilors and officials.

Young’s retirement becomes effective Sept. 1, but his last day in the office was July 4. Frost was sworn in as the interim chief on July 5.

Nielsen, who took over as town manager just a few weeks ago, bears sole responsibility for hiring and firing all department heads, but he sought councilors’ guidance during an executive session on July 6. Sarah Fuller, chairwoman of the Town Council, said she couldn’t comment on what went on during that meeting, but said generally the group discussed the hiring process.

“I think everybody thinks Ryan is the right choice,” Fuller said. “He knows the town, the people and the department as well as anyone possibly could.”

Frost, who has served as the department’s second-in-command for a number a years, has been with the department for 30 years. He started as a police cadet in high school, Fuller said.

Residents who contacted Fuller urged her to push for Frost’s selection as chief, Fuller said.

“We just think he’s the best guy for the job,” she said. “He’s universally well-liked and respected. We’re happy to have him.”

Craig Crosby — 621-5642

ccrosby@centralmaine.com

Twitter: @CraigCrosby4

Copy the Story Link