ADAMS, Mass. — The Selectmen appointed Officer Dakota Baker on Wednesday as a full-time patrol officer.
"He has got a good head on his shoulders, and he takes a great pride in being a police officer," Police Chief Richard Tarsa told the board. "It is with great joy that I to welcome Dakota Baker to the ranks of the Adams Police Department."
Baker was brought on as a reserve officer in April, he said, adding he has never seen an officer progress so quickly and take advantage of opportunities.
It was a team effort training Baker and many different officers had a hand in showing him the ropes, Tarsa said. Even his brother, Josh Baker, who is also on the force.
Tarsa said he has known Baker since he was a little kid and he has always been community orientated.
"I have seen him grow and mature, and he has always wanted to be a police officer and he has always been community orientated," the chief said. "He wants to give back to the town of Adams and what better way than to be a police officer."
The Board of Selectmen welcomed Baker to the force and congratulated him.
"Congratulations and thank you," Chairman Jeffrey Snoonian said. "If this is what you want to do with your life and give back to your home town that is awesome."
Baker said he looked forward to serving his community.
"Thank you again," Baker said. "This is my home town and I am looking forward to serving it."
In other business, Mazzucco said the Memorial Building will soon be totally cleaned out and then retested for mold.
Because of concerns of mold in the building and whether it should be occupied, the Selectmen had asked that it be tested again.