By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – Alabaster Police Chief Curtis Rigney is one of only 121 chiefs in Alabama to complete a rigorous law enforcement certification program, and received the city’s spotlight during an Oct. 27 City Council meeting.

During the meeting, Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon presented a proclamation honoring Rigney for completing the Certified Law Enforcement Executive Program.

The certification entailed 240 hours of training in leadership skills, human relations, internal personnel policies, external environmental issues and communications, and was developed by the Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police.

“I appreciate the recognition,” Rigney said after the meeting. “I’ve been working toward this since 2004.”

Rigney has been the Alabaster police chief since October 2012, when he was chosen to replace retired former Alabaster police chief Stanley Oliver. Rigney has been with the Alabaster Police Department for 24 years, and served as the department’s deputy police chief for 10 years before he was named chief.

City Council members showered Rigney with praise for his service to the city during the meeting.

“We are so proud of you and your team, and for all you do for this city,” said Ward 1 Councilwoman Sophie Martin.

“We’ve known you’re one of the best in the state for a long time,” Ward 2 Councilman Bob Hicks added. “Now you’ve got documentation to prove it.”