KALAMAZOO (WKZO) — The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety will have a large pool of applicants to choose from for the 14 positions they will have available this year.
Retirements are creating the openings in the department and the Chief Jeff Hadley put out a call to the media a few weeks ago for interested candidates to apply online.
Hundreds did and were invited to take a written test on Saturday on basic knowledge and aptitude for the job, which calls for more than just police work in Kalamazoo.
They will be graded and a smaller number invited back for physical tests and additional screening.
They have to not only be able to chase down bad guys, but because they are also firefighters, they have to be able to haul hoses, and perform other tasks that wouldn’t normally be expected of a cop. Cheif Hadley says they are also looking for people who have an urban orientation and dedication to public service.
Cheif Hadley says they have a lot of work ahead of them to find the 14 who will be best for the position and all it calls for.
They anticipate having another 14 openings next year.
