On behalf of the Shelburne Board of Selectmen, and myself as liaison to the police department, we want to announce that effective Oct.10, Steve Walker retired as our police chief, due to issues with his vision that basically forced him to leave the position much sooner than he ever anticipated he would.

We want to publicly thank Steve Walker for his many years of service as our Shelburne police chief, especially these last two years when, at the special request of the Shelburne Board of Selectmen, Steve continue to work, despite narrowing timeline issues regarding his vision. These two years allowed for a smooth transition, which has helped the Board of Selectmen enter confidently into the next phase of our police department’s development.

Steve’s professionalism was at its best during this period. We wish those two extra years with Steve could have been 20. He will be greatly missed, and we wish him all the best now and in the future.

Because of Steve’s dedication and commitment to making his department the best it could possibly be, we’re happy to announce that Greg Bardwell has been appointed interim chief, with a six-month probation period. During this period , we will be reviewing the department’s operations with Greg to see if any recommendations or changes may be in order at this time. We’ll be calling on Steve for his help in this endeavor as well.

Also, Officer Tim Budrewicz has been appointed interim sergeant, under the same six-month probation period.

Both of these men have 10 years of experience in law enforcement and have grown professionally under the direction of Steve Walker, while facing the challenges that police officers everywhere face each and every day. Despite the additional demands placed upon them during these past two years, they have performed admirably, working with Steve to make this transition as seamless as possible.

We have every confidence in their abilities. They have met the challenges of this difficult situation and have surpassed all levels of expectations. We appreciate them and what they do to serve and protect our town. And we’re behind them 100 percent

Joseph J. Judd

chairman

Shelburne Board of Selectmen