Police Chief succession planning underway; board appoints pro tems
Police Chief S. Alex Lee announced his July 1, 2027 retirement; the Board initiated a nationwide succession search. Chief Lee presented the Newport Police Department's Lifesaving Award to Communications Specialist William "Buddy" Russell for rescuing an unconscious pilot from a July 5 aircraft
Board of Selectmen · Meeting of August 24, 2026
NH NEWPORT — Police Chief S. Alex Lee announced his July 1, 2027 retirement; the Board initiated a nationwide succession search. Chief Lee presented the Newport Police Department's Lifesaving Award to Communications Specialist William "Buddy" Russell for rescuing an unconscious pilot from a July 5 aircraft crash at Parlin Airfield.
The Board unanimously appointed Keith Sayer and Ken Merrow as pro tems for the September 8 Primary Election and Clark Danderson to the Recreation Advisory Council. Town Manager Kyle Harris reported a citizens committee formed to evaluate candidates with interviews tentatively scheduled for October 27.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 448 words
Source: the Board of Selectmen meeting of August 24, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
Members read the rest of this story and every Newport meeting we cover, in full.
Become a memberAlready a member? Sign inA 30-day free trial needs a payment method. After it, your membership renews at the price shown at checkout until you cancel, which you can do anytime from your account. Subscription terms
Share this brief
Know someone in Newport who follows town government? Share Townbrief Newport: they can sign up free.