Governor appoints new safety commissioner

Kopp, 43, takes over the job from Walt Monegan, who was fired Friday.

"Chuck has dedicated his career to public safety and shares my commitment to strengthening our communities and combating drug and alcohol problems in rural Alaska," Palin said in a press release.

Palin, who is currently out of state, had said little about why she made the change.

"She feels that Commissioner Kopp will bring new leadership and new ideas to the table," said her spokeswoman Sharon Leighow.

The Public Safety Department that Kopp will lead includes the Alaska State Troopers, wildlife troopers, the crime lab, the fire marshal and the state board that controls liquor licenses.

In a press release, Kopp said he will be fiscally responsible and address recruitment and retention needs.

Kopp's challenges are significant. Recruitment has been a problem for years. About one in seven troopers positions is unfilled.

"Law enforcement across rural Alaska is in shambles," said John Cyr, executive director of the Public Safety Employees Association, which is the troopers union. "There are absolutely not enough guys out there to meet the needs."

Monegan was working on that and had filled the ranks more than previous commissioners, Cyr said.

Kopp's managerial skills will also be tested. The Kenai Police Department has about 30 employees. The Department of Public Safety has about 800.

"He gets things done," said Kopp's longtime colleague at the Kenai Police Department, Lt. Kim Wannamaker. He described him as someone who is detail-oriented, and likes to think and plan ahead.

The Legislature still needs to approve the appointment next session.

Kopp led Palin's Department of Public Safety transition team when she first took office.

Find Megan Holland online at adn.com/contact/mholland or call 257-4343.