SOUTHWICK – Town residents will have the opportunity to vote on a Special Act to extend Police Chief David Ricardi’s contract two more years at the next Town Meeting.
The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved the Special Act last night ater an executive session discussion.
The board reconvened into open session for the vote.
Selectman Russell Fox said he was concerned that Ricardi, who turns 65 this year, would retire at the same time that Fire Chief Richard Anderson is set to retire.
A search for a new fire chief is already underway.
Selectman Douglas Moglin agreed with Fox.
“I share Russ’s concerns about losing both public safety chiefs,” Moglin said.
Last month the board approved putting the Special Act before town voters. Normally, police chiefs are forced to retire at 65 unless the Special Act is approved. Ricardi made the request because he said he believes he has more to accomplish as chief.
At that time, Moglin and Selectman Chairman Joseph Deedy agreed to move forward but made it clear they wanted to do some research.
The Special Act allows for an extension of up to five years.
Deedy said Ricardi’s current contract end in June of 2016. The board approved asking voters to extend his contract until June of 2018, and approve the Special Act for an addiional three months after June 2018.
Deedy said that additional three months would give the town “leeway” in hiring a new chief.
Prior to the executive session, Fox touted Ricardi and said he supported his request.
“I think we can all agree we have an excellent chief,” said Fox.
