Amid nationwide calls for increased scrutiny of the police, Secaucus has moved to make it easier to become a cop.
At the Oct. 27 meeting, the town council introduced an ordinance amending the qualifications and procedures for appointments to the Secaucus Police Department.
At the caucus meeting before the regular meeting, officials said the ordinance was introduced on a recommendation by Police Chief Dennis Miller, who requested a change to the passing grade of the written exam from 70 to 65.
A public hearing on the ordinance was held at the Nov. 10 council meeting at 7 p.m. For more information, visit secaucusnj.gov.
Earning the badge
According to the ordinance, applications for appointment to the police department are made on a form and in a manner approved by the Town Administrator. When the council wants to fill vacancies, eligible applicants take a written exam.
The lowest passing grade will now by 65. If successful, the applicant must pass a physical fitness exam, followed by an oral exam with a passing grade of 70.
A department background investigation must then be completed. Applicants who pass all exams are brought before the mayor and council and ranked based on test results.
Applicants must successfully complete a psychological and medical fitness evaluation. The testing agencies and physicians are designated by the town administrator and approved by the mayor and council.
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