Wilkins Commissioners approved the appointment of officer Edward Krancic as interim police chief during last night's council meeting.

Mr. Krancic, a 22-year veteran of the Wilkins Township Police Department and current patrol officer, will replace retiring Chief Keith Guthrie, who is expected to resign Friday as part of a settlement agreement with the township.

The township reached a tentative settlement Feb. 24 with Mr. Guthrie for $50,000 from its insurance company to settle legal fees and $48,688 in sick, vacation, holiday and personal pay from the township upon retirement.

At yesterday's meeting Mr. Guthrie said he had not yet signed off on the agreement.

Commissioners also approved a motion to retain hiring consultant Bill Gamble to assist in the search for a new chief.