An employee may appeal a performance evaluation to the police chief and to the town manager. The lieutenant and chief rely on the sergeants' performance evaluations of subordinate officers to determine whether such officers will receive merit increases. Merit increases are not automatic and are not always awarded. Sergeant Esposito has held the rank of sergeant since 1989 - 1990 and generally performs approximately six performance evaluations each year. Sergeant Esposito forwarded the request to the chief for review and recommendation.
Sergeants routinely attend staff meetings with the chief and lieutenant.
Department policies, budget issues and disciplinary issues may be discussed at staff meetings. Sergeants are required to prepare quarterly reports which summarize activities and problems in the department. Sergeants have the authority to informally counsel employees and issue oral reprimands. Authority to issue other suspensions and dismiss employees resides with the chief. An officer may receive an oral reprimand or informal counseling for returning a cruiser without gas or leaving food in the cruiser.