BY DEBBIE PAGE

Troutman Police Chief Josh Watson was honored by the Town Council and staff as the town’s Employee of the Year on Thursday. Watson’s department turned out in force to cheer Watson on as he received this honor.

Town Manager Ron Wyatt said that Watson, who has held the chief position for three years, set a high bar for all of his officers, doing his job with a high degree of professionalism and being the kind of person that others look up to.

During his first month on the job, after working his day shift, Watson returned to cover patrol night shifts to ensure Troutman had the proper staffing and protection it needed, Wyatt recalled.

Watson has volunteered as a coach for community youth teams and in the schools. He is also present at town events to foster good community relations and ensure the safety of attendees.

Wyatt also praised Watson for advocating for competitive pay for his officers and for providing his officers with up-to-date equipment and training. With the salary increase, Watson also set expectations for a commiserate increase in performance.

Instead of hiring outside instructors, Watson instead ensured some officers earned their instructor certifications to train their colleagues. These in-house certified CPR, firearms, and driving instructors work to keep officers’ training up to date.

Watson also helps other departments when they need the help with events, traffic control, or other situations.

“I always brag on staff, but this past year Chief Watson has been the quintessential person of not just doing a job but making this a community that you want to be in,” said Wyatt. “He is respected not only by his employees and co-workers but the community as well.”

Watson thanked the council and Wyatt for the award. He gave the credit for the honor to the uniformed men and women of his staff. Pointing out the officers assembled in council chambers, he praised their hard work and dedication to training to be great officers. “They give their all.”

“I appreciate everything that you guys do because you make my job easier and make me look good,” the chief said.

Mayor Teross Young said the honor was well-deserved.

“You’ve done a great job in working with the officers since you’ve been here. It’s noticeable. We appreciate it, and we look forward to your continued service to the town,” Young said.

Council member Paul Henkel, who was part of the chief’s hiring process, said that Watson was head and shoulders above everyone else. “I think it was one of the best decisions I’ve made in all my years on the council. I want to thank you for your continuing service.”