BUHLER, Kan. – The Buhler Police Department will undergo yet another leadership change with the resignation of Chief John F. Brislin on Monday. Brislin was appointed after the city terminated former Police Chief Banning in mid June.
Mayor Ryan Wray’s statement is as follows:
“Recent events have brought significant changes to the City of Buhler Police Department. Following the termination of the previous Chief of Police, the City appointed a new chief to ensure continued leadership and uninterrupted police services Officer John Brislin stepped forward and accepted that responsibility. He gave the position his full effort-updating department policies, identifying equipment and software needs, managing active cases, and hiring three part-time officers from the Reno County Sheriffs Dept. The addition of these officers has helped maintain coverage while providing cost savings to the City. We are also proud to have Buhler resident David Mathes currently attending the law enforcement academy, and we look forward to celebrating his graduation on October 2
Chief John F. Brislin has submitted his formal resignation to the City of Buhler, effective October 1, 2026. His tenure as chief occurred during a period of rapid departmental transition, and he remains committed to ensuring an orderly operational handoff for department personnel over the next two weeks. The City appreciates Chief Brislin’s willingness to step up when Buhler needed leadership and thanks him for the time, energy, and stabilization groundwork he has provided to the community.
“On behalf of the City of Buhler, I want to thank John for stepping forward during a difficult and unexpected period of transition. He accepted this responsibility when our community needed leadership and worked hard to keep the department moving forward. We are grateful for his service.
Public safety remains a top priority for the City of Buhler. The governing body is actively working to ensure uninterrupted law enforcement coverage while carefully considering the department’s future leadership. Transitions can bring uncertainty, but our residents can be assured that the City is committed to making thoughtful decisions, supporting our officers, and maintaining dependable police services. We will continue to keep the community informed as appropriate.”
– Mayor Ryan Wray”
The City of Buhler will hold a special city council meeting on Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm in the City Building located at 219 N. Main. The meeting will be open to the public, however residents should expect an executive session to take place as the council discusses personnel matters.
