The Journal

HARRINGTON — Harrington Police Deputy Chief Norman Barlow was promoted to the rank of chief during Monday night’s city council meeting.

He will step into his new role July 1.

"I am excited about the new start. I am very excited about the new job; I’m excited to work with the citizens of Harrington and the men and women that will be working under me. I love Harrington, I always have. I have always had a passion and a drive to be here," Chief Barlow said.

Chief Barlow knows Harrington well — he grew up in the area and has spent almost his entire career working for the city.

Beginning in 1991 he worked with the City of Harrington’s Public Works Department. He soon rose to lead the department.

"I’d like to thank Frank Melvin, he was the guy who hired me in 1991 — he gave me my first start," Chief Barlow said.

In 1993, he entered the police academy.

"I have only been a police officer in Harrington," Chief Barlow said.

In 2004 he was promoted to Deputy Chief.

On July 1, he fills the position vacated by Mark B. Anderson.

"The process happened very quickly. I was shocked and very excited. It was a very exciting day when the council offered me this spot. I really meant a lot when the council unanimously offered me this position; I have to thank the council for having that much faith in me to move forward with the police department," Chief Barlow said.

Chief Anderson announced his retirement May 18.

The incoming chief sees the current economy as his department’s greatest challenge.

"There are always going to be challenges. With our economy the way it is, there are many things that could happen," Chief Barlow said. "Right now, the economy is the biggest challenge facing everybody, be it the police department, public works or just the city in general. Whether it is the crime that comes down from the impact from the economy — domestics are on the rise. When families can’t put food on the table they sometimes do things they normally wouldn’t do just to survive."

Chief Barlow plans to continue the programs started by the department, including National Night Out in August.

"I don’t foresee any major changes in the coming year. Our goal for this year is to do what we have to do as a team to keep moving forward," he said, "I am here to add not delete anything. I would like to boost morale — I want my employees to be a part of the decision making process."

But he added that there are many things he and the department can do to improve how they serve the community.

As chief he wants the residents of Harrington to know he is approachable and will listen. "I want the people to know that I am always willing to listen. I love working with people, I have an open door policy — if people have concerns or ideas about issues they are more than welcome to call or stop by."

"My wife and kids were all excited, we are all excited and I am elated," said the father of three.

"I believe that things happen for a reason, the good Lord has a plan, It was a goal of mine to get where I am at — now I am anxious to work it. I am happy and my family is happy. I’d like to thank everybody, the mayor and council, my family and my co-workers," Chief Barlow said.