QUINCY - Quincy should have a permanent police chief by December.

Mayor Jim Hemberry has extended a conditional offer of employment to Robert Heimbach, of Troutdale, Ore. Heimbach has more than 25 years of experience in various areas of law enforcement including patrol, investigations, training and administration.

"His strengths lie in community service," Hemberry said. "He's excited to come and not only just be our chief of police, but be a part of this community."

Heimbach is currently the lieutenant with the City of Portland Bureau of Police and runs the Youth Crime Prevention and Gang Resistance Education and Training Program. Hemberry stressed the important of Heimbach's willingness to serve the community and his work with youth.

"[Heimbach's] the face of the police department and he needs to be out there letting people know he's here to serve them," he said.

Heimbach was one of three candidates who participated in an event last week that included community panel interviews, city council interviews and a community meet and greet session.

"He did his homework," Hemberry said. "He did a really good job in the interviews. His strengths made him come out on top in every venue we had that day."

The city will now move forward with an extensive background check of Heimbach that will take around a month. From there, Hemberry will meet with Heimbach to draft an employment agreement that will be brought in front of the city council for approval.

Hemberry expects Heimbach to begin his duties as the police chief on or about Dec. 1.