Recruitment Notice: Public Works Director: The Village of Lake Hallie is seeking an experienced, strategic, and forward-focused Public Works Director to lead and continue strengthening our Public Works Department. This position provides overall leadership of all Public Works operations, including water distribution, cluster systems, streets, parks, facilities, recycling operations, fleet maintenance, and capital improvement projects. The Director supervises all Public Works staff and works closely with the Village Administrator/Clerk-Treasurer and Village Board to support infrastructure planning, regulatory compliance, and long-term service delivery. Lake Hallie is committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence. We are seeking a leader who values strong systems, embraces technology, and understands the importance of accurate reporting, accountability, and service reliability. What You Will Do Lead and supervise all Public Works staff and operations Oversee water system compliance, inspections, regulatory reporting, and DNR submissions Develop and administer departmental budgets Manage capital improvement and municipal construction projects Coordinate with engineers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public Establish clear operational priorities and performance standards Support emergency response and operational readiness Technology and Process Leadership Utilize and strengthen digital reporting platforms and state regulatory databases Ensure timely and accurate submission of required state and federal reports Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and improve documentation practices Support data-driven decision-making through improved tracking and reporting systems Promote efficiency through thoughtful implementation of technology tools What We Are Looking For Proven leadership experience in municipal public works or related infrastructure operations Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and reporting requirements Experience working within state databases and digital reporting platforms Ability to improve processes and implement structured, efficient workflows Experience managing capital projects and coordinating with external contractors Clear and professional communication skills Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public administration, or related field Five years of progressively responsible public works experience, including at least three years in a supervisory role Wisconsin DNR certifications in Municipal Water Supply (Groundwater), Water Distribution Grade 1, and Sanitary Sewage Collection System, or ability to obtain within 18 months Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Why Lake Hallie The Village of Lake Hallie is focused on responsible growth, operational alignment, and long-term infrastructure sustainability. This is an opportunity to guide a capable team, strengthen systems, and support a community that values high-quality public services. We are looking for a Director who will lead with professionalism, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Compensation and Benefits The annual base salary for this position starts at $72,800 and will be determined based on qualifications and experience. The Village offers participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. How to Apply Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected] by 12:00 Noon on Friday, March 13, 2026.

TEST TW WEATHER

Posted on , by Anastasia Stueber

Recruitment Notice: Chief of Police

The Village of Lake Hallie, Wisconsin, is seeking a forward-thinking and community-centered law enforcement leader to serve as their next Chief of Police. Located in the heart of the Chippewa Valley between Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire, Lake Hallie is a growing and vibrant community of more than 7,400 residents and approximately 360 businesses.

The Lake Hallie Police Department is a well-respected, full-service agency consisting of twelve (12) full-time sworn officers, including the Chief, a Detective, and a K-9 unit. The Chief of Police is appointed by the Police Commission and serves as the department’s executive leader, working collaboratively with the Police Commission and Village Board to provide strategic direction and operational oversight.

This role is primarily focused on leadership and administration, with approximately 90 percent of time dedicated to supervisory, strategic, and organizational responsibilities and 10 percent to patrol functions. The department maintains strong community relationships and operates as a traditional policing organization while continuing to evolve to meet the needs of a growing community.

Lake Hallie experiences one of the highest calls for service per officer in the Chippewa Valley, offering a dynamic and professionally rewarding environment. The Chief of Police is responsible for the development and administration of the department’s $1.8 million annual operating budget and plays a key role in shaping the department’s future through thoughtful leadership, fiscal stewardship, and community engagement.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

  • Wisconsin Law Enforcement Standards Board certification, or eligibility for reciprocity
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least five (5) years in a supervisory role
  • Demonstrated leadership, strong communication skills, and effective employee and labor relations experience
  • Proven experience with budget development and fiscal management
  • Progressive supervisory and administrative experience within a law enforcement organization
  • Valid Wisconsin driver’s license and U.S. citizenship
  • Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in police science, law enforcement, criminal justice, public administration, or a related field preferred. Equivalent education and experience will be considered as determined by the Police Commission
  • Ability to establish residency within 20 miles of Village Hall or within the Village of Lake Hallie within two (2) years of hire

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, leadership, or a related field
  • Senior leadership or command-level experience within a municipal or comparable law enforcement agency
  • Demonstrated success in community-oriented policing and building strong partnerships with residents, businesses, schools, and service organizations
  • Experience leading organizational growth, change management, and departmental modernization initiatives
  • Proven ability to develop and implement policies, procedures, and long-term strategic plans
  • Experience collaborating with a Police Commission, Village Board, or other governing bodies
  • Strong background in labor relations, personnel management, and fostering a positive organizational culture
  • Familiarity with accreditation standards, grants management, technology implementation, and regulatory compliance

Deadline to Submit Applications:

No later than Friday, March 6, 2026, at 12:00 noon.

Recruitment Timeline:

  • March 12, 2026 – Review Applications (Police Commission Meeting)
  • March 19, 2026 – Law Enforcement Panel Interview
  • March 23, 2026 – Review of Law Enforcement Panel Inteviews (Police Commission Meeting)
  • April 9, 2026 – Finalist Interviews (Police Commission Meeting)

Anticipated Start Date:

Between May 1, 2026 and June 1, 2026.

Position Salary Range:

$95,000-$105,000 with full benefits.

Full position description and related application material can be found: www.lakehallie.us.

Interested applicants should submit cover letter, DOJ 330, resume and Lake Hallie Background Questionnaire by March 6, 2026, to: [email protected]. 

 

VILLAGE & DEPARTMENT INFORMATION

The Village of Lake Hallie was incorporated from the Town of Hallie on February 18, 2003. According to the State of Wisconsin, the Village’s 2024 population estimate is 7,425, with more than 360 businesses filing personal property taxes. In 2014, the Village constructed a new Municipal Building that houses Village Hall, the Police Department, and the Lake Hallie station of the Chippewa Fire District.

The Lake Hallie Police Department employs twelve (12) full-time officers, including the Chief of Police. Staffing supports one (1) patrol officer for seven (7) hours per day and two (2) officers for seventeen (17) hours per day. The department’s structure includes two (2) union patrol sergeants, eight (8) patrol officers, one (1) detective, and a canine unit. Sworn personnel work a 10.5-hour shift rotation consisting of five (5) days on followed by four (4) days off, then four (4) days on followed by four (4) days off. The department is supported by one (1) full-time and one (1) part-time clerical employee, both working Monday through Friday. The Police Chief works a similar schedule.

The Village of Lake Hallie Police Department actively participates in cooperative efforts with neighboring law enforcement agencies through joint teams and investigations, and the incoming Chief is expected to continue and strengthen these partnerships.

The department has operated successfully under a traditional law enforcement model and is fully equipped with modern technology. All patrol units are outfitted with digital recording devices, including body-worn cameras.

Lake Hallie does not operate under a Village Administrator form of government. The Police Chief reports directly to the elected Village Board on financial matters and to the Police Commission for hiring, promotion, and disciplinary matters. Department vehicles and equipment are maintained through independent vendor services. The department operates its own five-bay municipal garage, vehicle impound lot, and evidence vault, and also provides animal control services for the Village.

The department currently maintains a fleet of ten (10) vehicles. Five (5) are assigned as take-home vehicles for officers who reside within the Village. Assigned vehicles include those for the Chief of Police, both Sergeants, the Detective, and one patrol officer. The remaining five (5) vehicles are assigned as general patrol units.

Chief of Police Recruitment Document