Incoming Chilmark police chief Brian Coffi created several staffing issues when he accepted the position a fortnight ago.

The town is looking for a replacement patrolman and they’ll also need a superintendent of cemeteries.

Mr. Coffi has been patrolman since 2001 and has been tending the town cemetery since Basil Welch retired from the position in January after 23 years.

Selectmen launched searches for both jobs Wednesday. Time is of the essence, since Mr. Coffi begins his new job July 1.

Selectman Warren Doty emphasized that both were key positions for the town.

“The position of patrolman has traditionally been someone who has stayed on for several years. So while we are looking to find someone as quickly as possible we also want to be aware that it’s an important choice,” he said.

The cemetery superintendent, meanwhile, plays the highly sensitive role of liaison for the bereaved and for funeral arranging, including the selection of grave plots.

“It’s not just cutting grass,” said Mr. Doty.

On a related matter board of health member Marina Lent was appointed burial agent Wednesday. The task is historically performed by the Island funeral home in Oak Bluffs, but Wednesday’s decision gives control of the process to Chilmark.

A body cannot be moved from the site where death is pronounced until the burial agent approves a death certificate from the pronouncing doctor. The burial agent inspects and approves the certificate before giving permission for the body to be moved for burial, cremation or autopsy.

Chilmark is also looking for a new tax collector for when Polly McDowell retires in July. A full job description is available on the town Web site.