Twisp Clerk-Treasurer Randy Kilmer administers the oath of office to returning Police Chief Paul Budrow. Mayor Hans Smith was out of town. Photo provided by Hans Smith.

After years of searching for a police chief, Twisp found one in its own backyard.

Paul Budrow was sworn in as police chief on Monday after a 3.5-year hiatus. Twisp Clerk-Treasurer Randy Kilmer administered the oath of office in a private ceremony attended by Budrow’s wife Amy and town employees.

Twisp Mayor Hans Smith had an engagement out of town and expressed regret that he could not administer the oath of office.

Smith shared his excitement about Budrow’s return. In an email accompanying photos from the ceremony, he wrote, “Welcome back Chief Budrow!”

Budrow announced on March 6 that he would be stepping down as sheriff. County commissioners selected Jodie Barcus as interim sheriff. She was sworn in on Thursday.

Barcus announced her candidacy for sheriff Feb. 21 and will be facing Gisberth Gonzalez, who also applied for interim sheriff but was not a finalist.

Amy Budrow pins a badge on her husband, Twisp Police Chief Paul Budrow. Photo provided by Hans Smith.