Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD) interim Police Chief Michael McCabe could serve in the top spot until springtime.
The city of Battle Ground entered into an interlocal agreement recently with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office that allows administrative deputy Michael McCabe to oversee police operations temporarily. The interim role was agreed upon on Jan. 2 and effective until March 31, Battle Ground communications manager Alisha Smith, stated. She added that the city is hopeful that the permanent chief will be in place by then after conducting a nationwide search to find a police chief to replace former Chief Mike Fort.
“City Manager Erin Erdman had considered appointing an internal candidate to the interim position,” Smith stated. “However, she made the decision to appoint an outside candidate in an effort to avoid overextending our remaining police command staff. We are fortunate to have strong regional partnerships that make this option possible.”
McCabe will assume the daily responsibilities and duties of a police chief and will serve as an adviser to the city manager regarding police department operations, procedures and needs, Smith said.
McCabe will also represent the police department during Battle Ground City Council meetings. He will maintain regular office hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during his interim chief tenure.
McCabe has 34 years of law enforcement experience with 30 of those at CCSO.
