PORT ANGELES — The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe is looking for a new chief of police after the resignation of Chief Jeffrey Gilbert.
Tribal CEO Bill White said that due to tribal policy he is not allowed to comment on personnel matters, but that the tribe is now seeking a new police chief.
“I can confirm that he worked here and that he resigned,” White said.
Gilbert was hired by the tribe in 2017. His last day of employment was Nov. 16, White said. He was unsure of what Gilbert’s future plans are.
“It’s not way out of the norm here to see transitions every two to three years,” White said. “That in itself isn’t unusual.”
Gilbert was unable to be reached for comment. Lt. Ted Potter is serving as the active chief of police until another chief is hired.
White said the tribe is hoping in the future that the chief of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribal Police Department will have a longer tenure.
White said the department has seen high turnover among officers.
He said salaries at the police department have not been competitive with other departments in the area, which may contribute to personnel turnover at the police department.
“We’re looking really hard at our salary structure,” he said. “We’re trying to see if we can pay our staff more.”
The tribe posted the position on its website Jan 11. The tribe is looking for someone who can maintain close working relationships with other area law enforcement and who has knowledge of tribal, federal, state and local laws applicable to tribal law enforcement.
Among the minimum qualifications is a strong knowledge, understanding and experience of leadership, management and employee disciplinary procedures.
White said it is likely the tribe will hire externally. He’s not aware of anyone within tribal members who meets the qualifications and is available to do the job.
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Reporter Jesse Major can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56250, or at jmajor@peninsula dailynews.com.
