GRAND HAVEN, Mich. — Grand Haven's Director of Public Safety is ready to retire.
Before taking on the Chief position with Grand Haven in 2012, Jeff Hawke had a long stint with the City of Cadillac.
Hawke's last day with the City of Grand Haven is May 31, 2024.
"Chief Hawke will be sorely missed; since his arrival in Grand Haven in 2012, he has built the Department of Public Safety into a widely respected and effective organization," Grand Haven Mayor Bob Monetza said. "His emphasis on community outreach, compassion, situation de-escalation, and respect for all individuals has made our community a safe, stable, and comfortable place for all residents."
The mayor said the Grand Haven community owes him a tremendous debt of gratitude.
"Chief Hawke leaves us with a solid foundation, a dedicated, effective and well-trained force of firefighters, police officers, and emergency responders, with strong ties to neighboring jurisdictions and a reputation for fair play," Mayor Monetza said. "Jeff will be tough to replace; he has made his place in our hearts with his quick wit and big personality. We appreciate all he has done for us, and we wish him the best in retirement."
The City is now working on recruitment plans to replace him, and will be posting the position in the coming weeks.
Officials hope to fill his role before October.
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