OTTUMWA, IA -- After heated debate, Ottumwa has a temporary public safety director. 

Council appointed police chief Jim Clark to the position by a vote of 3-2.  Because of budget cuts across the state, Ottumwa is facing money problems in the police and fire departments.  The biggest issue has to do with pensions for both departments.  At one point councilman Mitch Niner claimed that Clark would be biased in his assessments.

"I guess we'll find out tonight who's for the fire department and who's not,” said Niner.  “Cause everybody knows that we're trying to dig in and cut job titles inside our fire department.  It's no hidden secret."

“You can vote me out of this, but I’m frankly offended that I’m told I've got preconceived notions on what I'm going to do in this position,” responded Clark.  “You have not discussed this with me at all Mr. Niner.  In fact there's only been 1 or 2 people that have.  I have no preconceived notions other than to save this city $2.5 million.  And I can guarantee you and I can guarantee the citizens of this community and I can guarantee every one of these firefighters back here, my goal is to retain the services as we know them today.

In six months Clark should have recommendations for council on cuts to both departments.