CEDAR BLUFF, AL – Bill Warren, candidate for Mayor of Cedar Bluff, issued a statement today regarding the serious staffing shortage at the Cedar Bluff Police Department, where only the Chief of Police remains as the one officer on duty for the entire town.

Warren stressed that public safety is the cornerstone of any community and pledged to make resolving this crisis his top priority beginning on his first day in office.

“Public safety isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of a strong and thriving community,” Warren said. “It’s no secret that Cedar Bluff’s police department is facing an unprecedented challenge. Having just one officer is not sustainable and puts both our residents and our law enforcement at risk. As Mayor, I will make resolving this issue a day one priority.”

Drawing from his decades of public service as a first responder, Warren noted that he knows firsthand how challenging it can be to recruit and retain officers in small towns.

“In small towns like ours, we succeed when we work together,” Warren added. “This is a time for unity, not division. I am committed to working with the Police Chief, Town Council, county and state officials, and our community members to recruit and retain the officers we need. Cedar Bluff deserves a police force that is fully staffed, fully supported, and fully prepared to protect our people.”

Warren also thanked Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver for stepping in during this difficult time by offering aid and patrol support from his deputies.

“I appreciate Sheriff Shaver and his deputies for stepping up to help keep our community safe,” Warren said. “Their support means a great deal while Cedar Bluff works through this challenge.”

Warren concluded by reiterating his vision for Cedar Bluff — a safe, transparent, and accountable government that puts residents first.