Even in small towns, getting to know your neighbors can be difficult. This is why we have created a new series, Meet your Neighbor, to help you get to know some of the faces around the Edwardsburg and Cassoopolis communities.

Doug Westrick is a man of two towns.

He has lived in Cassopolis since 1992, moving to the area from Kalamazoo after college. However, as of June 1, he works in Ontwa Township as the new Ontwa Township Edwardsburg Police Chief.

Westrick has worked in law enforcement since 1990, starting in Cassopolis Village, before working for the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, where he stayed until 2017.

What is it like being the Edwardsburg Police Chief?

I am enjoying my brief time as chief. Most of my time since I have started has been getting to know people in the community and getting to know the police department. I have many people to meet and a lot to learn.

What does your day to day look like?

Much of my day since I have started has been reviewing paperwork and working with the officers. I hope to be able to get out more within the community in time.

What is your favorite part of the job?

I am enjoying working with the young officers. The young officers have great attitudes.

What is it like living in Cassopolis, but working in Edwardsburg?

Living in Cassopolis and working in Edwardsburg is not a big change from working for the Sheriff’s Office.

What do you do in the community outside of being police chief?

I have only been working in Edwardsburg for a month, so I have not been involved in the community other than having been to a few of the restaurants.

What is one thing you would like people to know about you?

I really can’t say as I am a private person and like to keep it that way.