The April 21 meeting of the Albia City Council highlighted growing concerns over leadership instability within the Albia Police Department, following the resignation of Police Chief Brad Evinger. His departure, less than two months after returning to the position, has prompted renewed criticism from council members over how the city has managed its police leadership.
Evinger had previously resigned from the same role in 2023 and was succeeded by Jacob Miller later that year. Miller, however, left the department in November 2024 to take a police chief position in Humboldt. Evinger’s reappointment was seen by some on the council as a key step toward restoring stability, and his sudden resignation has reignited frustration.
Council members expressed concern that a lack of unified support within the council has repeatedly undermined police leadership. They indicated that internal disagreements and insufficient backing from some members have contributed to the department’s ongoing challenges. Particular frustration was voiced over the timing of the resignation, which had been expected to mark the first time in months that the department would be fully staffed.
Some council members believe that consistent leadership and cohesive council support are essential to resolving the department’s longstanding issues. The recent resignation underscores the broader challenge of retaining qualified leadership amid a divided governing body.
With the police department again without a permanent chief, the city faces renewed urgency in addressing governance and staffing concerns to ensure public safety and departmental stability.
