First female police chief reflects on week of service

Tallulah Falls is making strides toward women empowerment with having the first female mayor and now the first female police chief.

Tonya Elrod took office as Tallulah Fall’s new Police Chief nearly two weeks ago, replacing former police chief Bill Goacher who retired.

Since starting her position as chief, Elrod said she couldn’t ask for any better.

“It’s been a little over a week but I love it,” she said. “The people here are absolutely wonderful and friendly. I couldn’t ask for any better.”

Elrod said shes currently still catching up on how the department was run under Goacher’s leadership but said she intends to keep all operations running smoothly and safely.

“I’m still seeing what all was going on before me and I want to continue things the way Bill had them, he’s a wonderful person,” she said. “Basically just continue what he had and continue to get out there and meet the people. As well as making sure the town is taken care of and safe. After that, we will look at things and see what we can do to make things even better.”

However, a notable change is forthcoming since Goacher’s retirememnt. According to Elrod, the Town of Tallulah Falls Water Department will be seperated from the police department.

“They’re (council) trying to separate the water department and public works from the police department to make it a little easier to manage. Until we can get everything structured, me right now, I’m just going to focus on where we are at,” she said.

Originally scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 29 was a public swearing-in ceremony that was to be held in Elrod’s honor in Tallulah Falls. However, that event has been canceled and rescheduled to next Tuesday, Feb. 5 at the Tallulah Falls School.

“I met with Dr. Peevy who said he would like to hold the ceremony there and have a meet-and-greet. It’s going to be on Feb. 5th from 4:30 to 6 p.m.,” she said. “It will allow people an opportunity to get to know me and for me to get to know them.”