After 19 years under the leadership of Ed Prady, the Thorsby Police Department has a new man in charge. And, it’s one of their own.

During Monday’s council meeting, Thorsby Mayor Dearl Hilyer recommended the hiring of current Thorsby officer Rodney Barnett as the town’s next chief of police.

“I believe Rodney is the best fit for Thorsby going forward with the issues we are facing right now,” Hilyer told the council in recommending Barnett.

Prady, who is set to retire May 1, will continue through the month and work to offer additional training to Barnett to ensure a smooth transition, Hilyer said.

“We went through a structured process in the interview process and were pleased with the six qualified candidates we interviewed,” Hilyer said.

In working through the next few weeks, Hilyer said Barnett will work with Prady on the reporting and other paperwork officers are not exposed to.

Barnett was not in attendance at Monday’s meeting.

Prady, in attending his final council meeting as chief, told the council he had enjoyed his time with the department and thanked the council members for their support.

“I am still a resident here,” Prady told the council. “I may be the one calling up with a complaint now.”

Barnett’s first day as chief will be Monday, May 4.