New Great Bend Police Chief Steve Haulmark, center, chats with City Administrator Kendal Francis, right, and newly elected City Council member Kevyn Soupiset (who will replace Barry Bowers who didn’t seek reelection) after the council meeting Monday night. The council had just approved hiring Haulmark who comes to Great Bend after serving as assistant police chief in Kansas City, Kan. “You guys have a lot of things here to be proud of,” he said. “I’m looking forward not only to working in this city but becoming a member of your community.” He replaces Chief David Bailey who in September announced his retirement effective Dec. 18 after over 40 years with the department. With 25 years of law enforcement experience, Haulmark was the overwhelming choice of two interview panels featuring city officials and community representatives. The city’s nationwide search yielded 21 applications, some of which were from current Great Bend Police Department personnel.