Mifflinburg Borough Council Unanimously Selects Sgt. Fetterman for Police Chief

Sgt. Tracy Fetterman, who has patrolled Mifflinburg streets for 23 years and has led the department on an interim basis since Chief Jeffrey Hackenburg's resignation, was unanimously offered the permanent police chief position by borough council Tuesday night.

The offer is contingent on Fetterman's acceptance and review of the employment agreement by the borough's labor attorney. Borough President Beverly Hackenberg made the case for the internal promotion plainly: "Sgt. Fetterman has been with the department for 23 years. He was recently appointed sergeant. He has taken numerous classes in management and has been continuing his education. We feel like he is a good fit."

Fetterman has served as a sergeant for the last three years and previously spent nearly three years as a Union County Sheriff's deputy before returning to the borough force.

Hackenburg submitted his resignation last month after accepting a part-time job as a public safety specialist with Lexipol, where he will consult on a pilot program pitching new products to first responders. His departure closed a chapter that began in 2020 when the borough hired him to succeed former chief Fred Dryoff. Hackenburg came to Mifflinburg following a 25-year career with the Pennsylvania State Police, where his assignments included stations in Milton, Montoursville, and Selinsgrove; he served as commander for four years at the Selinsgrove station.

The Hackenburg name carries deep roots in the department. Jeffrey's father, Donald Hackenburg, served as a borough officer for 38 years before taking on the chief's role in 1991 and retiring in 1993.

Once Fetterman formally accepts the position, Hackenberg said the borough will work through the civil service commission to hire a replacement patrol officer.

Council also approved two other items at Tuesday's meeting. Borough Manager Margaret Metzger announced that council voted to purchase a 2025 Dodge Durango for $43,395 for the police department, a price that does not include the additional equipment the vehicle will require. Council also voted to temporarily establish payment plans for small businesses affected by utility rate changes.