Public Safety Director

In January 2006, Michael Blackwell was appointed as the City of Union’s Director of Public Safety, where he oversees the day-to-day operations of both the Police Department and Fire & Rescue Department, serving as Chief of both.

Chief Blackwell began his service to the City of Union in 1997 as a patrol officer with the Union Police Department. In January 2000, he was promoted to Lieutenant, managing the department’s daily operations including patrol, personnel, and investigations. In February 2003, he advanced to Chief of Police, continuing to build on a strong foundation of leadership and public service.

Chief Blackwell began his law enforcement career in 1995 after graduating from the Sinclair Community College Police Academy. He served as a part-time police officer for both the Village of Enon and Perry Township Police Department, while also working full-time for the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

Before entering law enforcement, Chief Blackwell proudly served his country as an Infantry Soldier in the United States Army for three years.

In addition to his law enforcement background, Chief Blackwell has been active in the fire service since 1988, beginning as a cadet with the Randolph Township Fire Department. In 1990, he became an active volunteer firefighter and has been a member of the Union Fire & Rescue Department since 2000. He is a Level II Firefighter and has his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University.

A lifelong member of the Northmont community, Chief Blackwell graduated from Northmont High School and continues to reside in the Union with his wife and children.