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August 24, 2010

Neshannock’s Carlo back as patrolman

Nancy Lowry New Castle News

NEW CASTLE — Neshannock Township police superintendent Phil Carlo last night re-entered the ranks of patrolman.

Carlo, who served in the department for 21 years — 16 as superintendent — requested the transfer, which places him back in the police labor union. He will be paid $22.37 per hour as a patrolman.

As superintendent, Carlo was paid a salary of $50.254.61, with the opportunity for overtime pay.

In a letter received by the supervisors Friday, Carlo said he is proud of his work as superintendent and the protection provided to township residents.

“For some time now, I have pondered this decision,” the letter continued. “With the position of superintendent comes constant accessibility and precision decision-making efforts. With that in mind, and the desire to commit more time to my personal interests, I feel that at this time it is best that I return to the position as a full-time patrolman with the Neshannock Township Police Department.”

He stressed it is his intent to remain employed with the department and said he looks forward to more years of service.

The supervisors accepted the letter and named Lt. John Rand, the ranking officer, as the officer in charge of the police department, continuing at the same rate of pay, $22.86 per hour.

Rand jointed the police force as a part-time officer on Nov. 26, 1997. He became a full-time officer in February 1998, and was promoted to lieutenant in 2002.

Neshannock’s force includes nine people — one lieutenant, six full-time and two part-time officers.

Twice at last night’s meeting Carlo was called forward by the supervisors. The first time was after his letter was read and the supervisors — Ralph Sheen, John DiCola and chairman Ed Stevens — shook his hand and thanked him for his service.

At that time, Carlo noted that as superintendent, he was “locked on, heart and soul. Policing is a way of life.” But he said he was happy to provide the service.

“But 16 years takes its toll,” he said. “I haven’t had one day off mentally,” since taking the superintendent’s job.

Carlo said he was proud to have served as superintendent and will be proud to return to patrolman status.

At the end of the meeting, Carlo was called forward again and the supervisors presented him with a plaque containing his badge number — 7 — and their official thanks for his service.

DiCola made the presentation.

“I was part of the group who hired you 21 years ago,” he said, recalling Carlo’s first community exposure came through the township’s volunteer fire company.

“I was honored that you became a police officer and then selected as superintendent,” he said, adding, “I am not happy that you are stepping down from that position but I respect your wishes, candor and reasons for doing so.”

However, DiCola added, “I hope you are not doing this under pressure.”

DiCola noted that Neshannock has enjoyed many years of good policing, beginning with Jim Reed and Bob Shaffer, who each had headed the department prior to Carlo’s appointment.

“In the 16 years you led the department, I saw many things occur that aided the growth and expansion of the community.” He also commended Carlo on his ability to meet the challenges that faced him as head of the department.

DiCola noted he and Carlo have not always seen eye to eye but “other than the felons who live in or pass through the community, I have never heard any nasty comment of your work with the department.”

He said proof of Carlo’s level of service is the exceptional number of people who signed up to be hired for the department.

“I am saddened but honored for your commitment and thank you for your service.”

This was met by applause of the 20 people attending the meeting, including police officers and fire department members.

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