Nebraska City – Another veteran law enforcement official is stepping in as Nebraska City’s interim police chief.
Captain Lonnie Neeman took the oath as interim police chief at Monday night’s city council meeting. He succeeds David Lacy, who retired this month after 43 years with the department, the last 18 as chief. Nebraska City Mayor Bryan Bequette tells KMA News that Neeman is a long-time member of the Nebraska City PD.
“He joined the PD six years after Chief Lacy did,” said Bequette. “Around 1987-88, he worked his way up through the ranks as a sergeant. He’s been the captain for some time, leading all investigations, working with officers and sergeants to improve their investigative skills, following up on cases, and coordinating with the courts. So, he’s been doing that for quite a while.”
Bequette says Neeman will serve as interim chief until the city hires a permanent successor. Applications for the position are still being accepted.
“The job posting for the permanent position is open until the 26th,” he said. “We posted it internally and are waiting for full-time department members to apply by the end of the month. We have at least one application and expect a few more. That’s our current status.”
Bequette notes that Neeman is not expected to apply for the permanent chief position.
“He hasn’t decided on his retirement plans,” said Bequette. “He told me he wanted us to choose a chief who could serve longer than he’s interested in a permanent role. He’s willing to help the city in an interim capacity and then assist the new chief.”
Once the application period ends, Bequette says a list of applicants will be sent to the city’s public service commission for review. After that, the names of the qualified candidates will be sent to the city’s commissioners for a decision. Bequette hopes to appoint a new police chief by the end of August.