26-year veteran named to head Sylvania police

3/17/2010

A 26 1/2-year Sylvania Police Department veteran has been tapped to become the department's new leader when current Chief Gerald Sobb retires next month.

The promotion of Capt. William Rhodus, who joined the department shortly before his boss became chief, was approved Monday night by City Council following a recommendation from a candidate-selection committee.

"I was just elated, very happy," Captain Rhodus said yesterday morning after having been advised of his selection Monday night by Chief Sobb.

"It's a good choice," said Chief Sobb, who was part of the selection committee. "We had two very qualified people to choose from. Bill has done a fine job for us as second-in-command."

City Council President Keith Haddad said Captain Rhodus' experience as the department's second-in-command ended up being "what it came down to" in choosing him over Det. Sgt. Rick Schnoor, the other applicant to succeed Chief Sobb, whose retirement takes effect April 26.

"He's got a lot of experience and has been a great captain," Mr. Haddad said. "It should be a seamless transition."

Captain Rhodus' salary has to be determined. Chief Sobb's current pay is $108,000, plus a $1,500 stipend for also holding the title of safety director in the city administration.

Captain Rhodus will not carry the latter title, which instead will be given on an interim basis to Bill Sanford, whom Mayor Craig Stough hired last month as Sylvania's economic development and administrative services coordinator.

Contact David Patch at:

dpatch@theblade.com

or 419-724-6094.