The Wayne City Board of Trustees recently met to address several concerning issues, including the ongoing search for a new Police Officer and Police Chief. The vacancy follows the resignation of former Chief of Police Anson Fenton in September amid public and trustee concerns regarding his use of seized or forfeited properties.
During the meeting, Trustee Jarod Peyton noted there were no updates since the November discussion regarding a replacement for Fenton. Mayor Rocky Hedden shared that he had consulted with Wayne County Sheriff Chris Otey, who recommended opening applications to fill the chief’s position. In the meantime, residents have expressed frustration over unchecked incidents within the city limits.
Fenton’s resignation has since taken a dramatic turn, with the former chief now facing federal charges.
In late November, he was indicted in the U.S. District Court in East St. Louis for misapplying property from a federally funded program and interstate transportation of stolen property. Two Wayne City residents addressed the board with concerns about a motorcycle allegedly sold to an Indiana resident under suspicious circumstances.
In other matters, Trustee Steve Buxton provided an update on the Mary Neff property near Wayne City Park.
After repeated failed attempts to contact a lawyer in Metropolis, the village attorney, Darrin Rice, sent a warranty deed for review. Once approved, the board anticipates the property may need to go through a rebidding process.
The meeting also noted the absence of Trustee Dr. Paul Bruinsma. Dr. Bruinsma, who serves as Dean of Instruction at Frontier Community College, was recently placed on administrative leave pending an internal review of a confidential matter, according to the Illinois Eastern Community Colleges District Office. He remains a prominent figure in the community, holding roles as president of the Fairfield Memorial Hospital Foundation and contributing to local initiatives.
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