SchelkophVCValley City (CSi) Valley City Administrator David Schlelkoph says the search to hire a new Valley City Police Chief is on hold.

He says the search has been stopped because of the unknown outcome of a proposed city petition and possible vote by the people in the future.

Under the proposal the administrative control of the city police department would move to the Barnes County Sheriff’s office if the proposed measure was passed by the voters of Valley City.

According to City Auditor Avis Richter as of Wednesday a petition has not been submitted to the city for approval.

Current Police Chief, Fred Thompson, tendered his resignation earlier this year and will step down in mid-January.