ARDMORE, OK – A new police chief started on Monday. In less than a year, the Ardmore Police Department has seen three chiefs. But the new police chief - Keith Mann - says he's from the area, and he’s here to stay. Shelby Levins reports.

"I'm not someone that came in from another state, that doesn't understand the values and morals of the people here. I'm about as southern Oklahoman as you can get,” Chief Mann said.

Monday marked Mann's first day as Ardmore Police Chief. He spent most of the day meeting with officers and settling in. But with more than 30 years experience on the Oklahoma City Police force, Mann feels right at home with his new badge - saying he's in law enforcement to make the community a better place.

"It's cool to talk about the guys you arrest or the suspects you take in. But really the real joy with law enforcement work is helping people,” Chief Mann said.

Ardmore city commissioners officially hired Mann last week, with city leaders, community members and the Fraternal Order of Police all voting unanimously to approve Mann as chief.

FOP members like Sgt. Eric Hamblin, say it's important the officers got a voice in the process and they're looking forward to some long-term stability.

"We all are very impressed by him. He's very personable, and we're really looking forward to the future. And I think he's the man that can get us where we want to be in the future,” Sgt. Hamblin said.

Chief Mann says he's committed to providing the best public service possible for the Ardmore residents. But the new chief says his first priority is getting to know the strengths and needs of his department, and then he'll focus on moving forward.

"If we see things that need to be done we'll obviously make changes, but I want to learn what's important before I jump out and start doing anything,” Chief Mann said.

Mann and many officers we've spoken to say the department is already on the right track because of the leadership of interim Chief Gary Adams. Adams took over after former Chief Leonardo left.

An appreciate reception for Chief Adams' hard work is scheduled for next Monday.