After reviewing numerous resumes and conducting four interviews, Coolville’s town council voted unanimously to hire Detective James Heater as their new Chief of Police.

Chief Heater lives on the outskirts of Tuppers Plains, but grew up in Coolville and was a 1990 graduate from Federal Hocking. He then attended Ohio Police Officer Basic Training under Sheriff John Hicks and worked part time as an auxiliary officer in Trimble and Glouster.  For a year or so he was also the Albany Marshall, then went on in 2000 to become a Detective for the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

He believes in a common sense approach to law enforcement and feel the role of an officer is that of a public servant first and foremost. With that in mind his goals are to begin patrolling the streets of Coolville and to actively work with council to aid in the public image of Coolville. “We do not want Coolville to be known as a speed trap to motorists passing through the area”, states councilwoman Lisa Queen. 

When asked about his grant writing abilities Heater admitted he has no experience, but is interested in learning the process. Mayor Harris expressed “the problem with our last chief (Sheridan) was he spent too much time in the office and not enough time on the streets” and felt grant writing should not be a deciding factor in council’s decision.

According to Ohio Basic Code, Chief Heater will begin a six-month probationary period with council having the option to hire him at that point. He will be working with no auxiliary officers as of yet.