HOLLISTER, Mo. -- The City of Hollister has announced the replacement of current Police Chief Preston Schmidt, who is retiring early next year.

Robert "Bert" Stirewalt II was named the incoming Hollister Chief of Police and will assume those duties on Feb. 1, 2026, following Schmidt's last day. He will begin in a training role with Hollister on Dec. 1, 2025.

Stirewalt has previously served 23 years with the Taney County Sheriff's Department, where he was promoted from patrolman to supervisor, to his current position as a criminal investigator.

"I am truly grateful for the opportunity to join the Hollister Police Department and serve this wonderful community. I will strive to enhance the trust between officers and residents, build upon the department’s achievements, and ensure that Holli

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