Awards Presented to Sedalia Employees

Several awards led off Monday night's City Council meeting.

Victoria Kottman retired from the Sedalia Police Department after serving nearly 21 years, first as a reserve officer in May of 1998, then as a dispatcher In January 1999, then as a patrol officer in March of 1999.

Ofc. Kottman worked in the traffic division, and was the go-to person for vehicle accident reconstruction.

She also conducted DWI checkpoints, worked parades, and was a child car seat technician.

Police Chief Matt Wirt commended Kottman on her professionalism.
Kottman is now in the real estate business.

Mark Cherry was presented with the Sedalia Police Officer of the Year award from SPD Chief Matthew Wirt.

Wirt, along with the help of the command staff, made the selection due to Cherry's “ability to go above and beyond and be a darned good police officer,” Wirt said.

The choice of Cherry demonstrated his extraordinary dedication and stellar duty performance in 2018, as well as his overall development, Wirt noted.

Ofc. Cherry coordinated crisis intervention team training on local and statewide levels. “Subsequently, you have been a representative of our department to other agencies across Missouri,” Wirt said, adding that required extensive travel and dedication.

Cherry also trains others in firearms and defensive tactics. He also assists with initial instruction with new recruits.

“They see your devotion to duty, and it's a great start for the recruits ... You are well respected by your peers, as both a partner and mentor. You are routinely sought out by peers when they need advice on a personal matter,” Wirt said of Cherry, adding that he has been very dependable and productive.

Executive Administrative Assistant Sandy Goff was recognized for 25 years of service to the SPD.

“Sandy works with me, and she should get an award just for that,” Wirt joked.

Goff, who has worked directly with four police chiefs and three interims, runs the promotions and testing for the department, as well as coordinate various Special Olympics events.

Two new police officers were pinned by Chief Wirt at Monday night's meeting, including Justin Franken and Kylie Marshall. Wirt explained that the new recruits go through a multi-month police academy, then 14 additional weeks of training at the SPD.

The new officers are now off probation and ready to serve and protect the citizens of Sedalia.

Elaine Fisher, Sedalia Water Department administrative assistant, was recognized for her 15 years of service to the City of Sedalia.

Not present at Monday night's meeting was Joseph D. Knight, who retired after 14 years and six months of service in the City's Water Pollution Control Department.