Coatesville Police Chief William Matthews last night blamed council members for some of the problems within the police department.

"This is not going to be politically correct," Matthews warned when Council Member Ed Simpson asked for an explanation on why eight police officers had resigned and what could be done to stop future resignations.

"Go ahead, we enjoy candor," answered Simpson.

"It has to come from behind this table," said Matthews. "I think a budget has to be passed, people recruited, as some tangible things have to be done behind the words."

Said Simpson: "Don't blame us for your shortcomings. Mr. Walker hired you not us."

During the summer, shortly after Matthews was hired in April, there were talks that six police officers faced possible layoff because the city failed to make up a $1.2 million budget shortfall by selling off city-owned land. In the last two months, eight police officers have resigned and Lt. Matt Gordon, an 18-year veteran, placed on administrative leave with pay.

"We never had that number of officers leave before," said Simpson. "Respect is earned not given," he added.

Council Member Stephanie Dowridge-Smith, whose term expires this year, told Matthews, "You are not engaging council . . . as a council head you should be more proactive with council. You never asked to meet with council."

She pointed Matthews made things more difficult by letting council to first learn of a "process in the newspaper," a reference to the Gordon being placed on administrative leave.

"The problems here weren't created in the last five months. I came here and these problems were settled on my back, but I take responsibility. As long as I'm here there will be accountability," Matthews said.

Council Member Kurt Schenk was the only council member to speak out in support of Matthews. "If no one in this room will support you, I will support you," he said. Referring to City Manager Harry Walker, Schenk told Matthews: "You haven't endured the beating and criticism that man has. Don't give up."

Schenk then called on Matthews to consider promoting Lt. Julius Canale to either captain or assistant police chief. "I would like to ses you two working together," he said.

Matthews called Canale a "consummate professional." Canale was acting police chief prior to Matthews being hired.

While not explaining why Gordon was placed on leave, Matthews said "Elected officials or appointed officials influence have not influenced any decisions." He said he was aware a number of people were leaving the department and he understood why some are leaving. "Some feel insecure about the future of the department," he said.

Matthews said he preferred to concentrate on the 75 percent that are staying.