HELP WANTED: POLICE CHIEF

The City of Gaffney didn't wait long to hang a "Help Wanted" sign for a new police chief.

Twenty-four hours after John O'Donald announced Thursday he would retire as police chief on Dec. 26, the city began its search for his replacement by placing advertisements Friday in newspapers and on Web sites.

The city is seeking applicants with a bachelor's degree in law enforcement, criminal justice or public administration as well as 10 years of experience in law enforcement - three of which must have been equivalent to a police sergeant or higher.

Applicants also must possess a valid South Carolina driver's license and have successfully completed coursework at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy.

The deadline to apply is Friday, Oct. 24.

O'Donald's salary is $53,000 a year. Gaffney Administrator James Taylor said the candidate's qualifications will determine the next police chief's salary.

Taylor said he will play a leading role in selecting the new police chief. He said he will conduct the initial screening to pick the finalists who will be interviewed and hired by Gaffney City Council.

"We will do the same thing we've done to hire other department head positions," Taylor said.