Tomlinson retires after 31 years
By MEGHAN McCOY
Last week the community gathered for a special meet-and-greet reception for Police Chief William Tomlinson, who is retiring after 31 years.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with you for 10 years, seven years as mayor. It’s been an amazing process to watch your hard work, your dedication, your education, your training and the respect that you have by all of your officers,” Mayor Kevin Ruane said. “I can’t thank you enough for keeping this island safe and keeping everybody really calm. Your demeanor is just one that is soothing.”
He said his leadership was second to know ones and he will be a tough act to follow.
Among the gifts presented to Tomlinson during the City Council meeting was a plaque graced with all of the patches of the rankings he had during his tenure with the police department.
“I can’t say enough of how much I have appreciated the opportunity the citizens of Sanibel have given me,” Tomlinson said. “I appreciate City Council for everything they have done over they years. The mayor has been phenomenal. The city manager is second to none. Everyone that works with me and for me, just part of the team, I am happy that you are here. I know that you will continue to do great work when I am gone. Everyone in the city is fantastic, they just do a great job.”
Tomlinson began his employment with the city on Nov. 19, 1985 as a part-time police aide. Throughout his 31 years, he was a police officer, sergeant, bureau commander and Sanibel Emergency Management director and deputy chief. Tomlinson became the chief Nov. 19, 2002.
During his tenure he oversaw 100 percent clearance rate of violent crimes, which included one sole homicide. Sanibel was also named the fourth safest city in Florida, and an “Exceptionally Livable” city during his years as the chief of police.
Council member Marty Harrity congratulated Chief Tomlinson on a job well done after the presentation.
“There are lots of definitions, kind of profiles you can draw from someone. One of my many experiences with him was during Hurricane Charley. Just how calm and professional he was in all matters,” he said. “He served the city and the citizens of Sanibel well.”
During his tenure, he established the nationally acclaimed hurricane re-entry hangtag pass system.