Brainerd Police Chief Corky McQuiston announced his plans to retire from his position effective Nov. 28 in a letter dated Aug. 26 to Brainerd City Administrator Jennifer Bergman.
The letter is part of the Brainerd City Council agenda packet for its meeting scheduled at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8. Via email, McQuiston stated he intends to make the public announcement at the council meeting.
In McQuiston’s letter to Bergman, he stated: “I am very grateful for the opportunities that the City of Brainerd and the community have given me during my 24 years with the Police Department. I’m extremely proud of the men and women that work at the police department and consider myself blessed to have worked with them. The support I have received over the years from the community, city staff, and criminal justice partners have been incredible and was a major part of my effectiveness as a Police Chief.
“To continue to deliver excellent comprehensive police services to our community, the timing is right for new leadership to bring a fresh perspective to the challenges with hiring, retention and potential police reform that lie ahead. I hope to be able to lend whatever assistance I can or role the City would like me to be involved in for the selection process of a new Police Chief.”
In the council packet, under the resolution is for the council to accept McQuiston’s retirement with regret, authorize his severance payout and to request that the Police and Fire Civil Service Commission, that oversees the hiring process in the police chief position, begin the hiring process.
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“Since Chief McQuiston has provided 3 months notice, we are hoping to have someone on board before his retirement. If the appointment of an Interim Chief is needed after Chief McQuiston retires, staff will come back to the Council with a recommendation,” it stated in the packet.
