New police chief sworn in, mayor issues 2 proclamations at Town Council meeting

New Black Mountain Police Chief Steve Parker was sworn in and Mayor Larry Harris issued two proclamations at the Nov. 8 Town Council meeting.

"Steve has experience in about every function of the police department," said town manager Josh Harrold. 

Parker, the former police chief in Tega Cay, South Carolina, took over as police chief in Black Mountain on Nov. 1.

Parker began his law enforcement career in Charlotte in 1993. According to Harrold, Parker has worked in nearly every area of policing, from narcotics to K9 to SWAT to patrol, among others. 

"I hope everyone can welcome Steve to the town of Black Mountain. I think he's going to do a terrific job," Harrold said. 

Harris issued a proclamation regarding Arbor Day and another proclamation regarding Veterans Day at the Town Council meeting. The mayor named Nov. 10 Arbor Day in Black Mountain and Nov. 11 Veterans Day. 

"We honor them and their invaluable contributions," Harris read from the Veterans Day proclamation. "We will never forget what they and their loved ones do for us."

The town plans held an Arbor Day celebration Nov. 10 at Lake Tomahawk. A parade to honor Veteran's Day was Nov. 11 in downtown Black Mountain along State Street.