PALMETTO, La. (KLFY) – While millions of Americans flooded the polls on Tuesday to elect members of congress, council members and local law enforcement; the people of Palmetto had no one to vote for in the village; as the mayor and three aldermen were unopposed.

But there was one position that no one qualified for: police chief.

Village mayor, Marx “Sonny” Budden says, “The chief of police, he resigned about two months ago.”

Former chief David Krull resigned on August 24th.

So for the past two months, patrol units have collected dust in the St. Landry Parish village. 

This leaves the village without local law enforcement; but the sheriff’s office will respond to emergencies, Budden said. 

“The sheriff’s department backs us up. Anytime we need anything he is glad to send somebody to give us support,” the mayor said.

To continue that partnership longterm, the village would have to enter a contract with the sheriff’s office.

In the meantime, residents will vote on the December 8 on whether or not to make the police chief position elected or appointed.

Guyton Budden is an alderman in Palmetto. He said, “We’re such a small town. Probably appointment would be best because it’s hard to find somebody in the town that will do it. We’ve tried different people, but nobody is interested.”

If you were wondering, yes, the Buddens are brothers.

Though they come from a long line of politicians, there are no police officers in the family, so count them out for chief.

For current emergencies in Palmetto, call the sheriff’s office.

Interested candidates must have at least a high school diploma. You can mail or drop off resumes at the town hall.