Stover mayor steps down, becomes city’s police chief
Ryan Shiner
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
A shakeup has occurred in Stover.
The Stover Police Department wrote in a Wednesday night social media post that now-former Mayor Clayton Judd will step down from his position in order to become the city’s new police chief.
Judd had won a narrow race in April against Michael Lowe. Alderman Gregg Sidebottom was named the mayor pro tem during the meeting. Sidebottom previously served as the pro tem prior to Judd’s election.
“In a small town like Stover, it is not uncommon for family and friends to end up working together. It is never something that was planned, just the nature of close knit communities. With that said, Sergeant Cassidy Judd’s continued service in her role does not fall under Missouri’s nepotism laws. The City follows all legal and ethical guidelines, and these matters are addressed appropriately and lawfully when they arise,” the post says. “Clayton Judd ran for mayor with every intention of serving his full term. However, when he was asked to take on a larger role for the good of the community, he humbly resigned as mayor and accepted the responsibility of leading our police department.”
Former Chief Chuck Black’s retirement was announced during a June 9 special City Council meeting. Judd also stepped down during the same meeting.