West Tisbury selectmen expeditiously selected Lieut. Matt Mincone to succeed Dan Rossi as West Tisbury police chief at Wednesday night’s meeting, drawing enthusiastic applause.

“Before we take a vote, I just want to say what a pleasure it is to have such a peaceable process,” said selectman Cynthia Mitchell. “I want to credit Lieutenant Mincone for his years in the department and his clear right to this position. He’s earned it.”

Chief Mincone succeeds retiring chief Dan Rossi.

Mark Alan Lovewell

Chief Mincone succeeds retiring chief Dan Rossi.

Mark Alan Lovewell

Mrs. Mitchell also thanked Chief Rossi for his service to the department. Selectman and board chairman Jeffrey (Skipper) Manter 3rd, who is also a sergeant on the force, recused himself from the decision-making process.

The selection was swift and untroubled following Chief Rossi’s announcement of his retirement at the end of last year.

Lieutenant Mincone, who has worked for the department since 1995, received unanimous endorsement from his colleagues and significant support from community leaders.

Citing that support, selectmen decided not to broaden their search to other candidates. The board held a public forum last month to give the public an opportunity to get to know the candidate. At that forum, Lieutenant Mincone said it was his intention to serve as chief for the next eight to ten years.

He has been instrumental in achieving certification for the department from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission. He also coaches hockey at the regional high school.

He begins work March 31.