SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Board of Selectmen this week unanimously approved pursuing special legislation to extend the police chief’s position.
Police Chief David Ricardi is seeking approval from the state to stay on as chief for up to another five years.
Ricardi should retire in the coming year but if the special legislation is approved, he would be allowed to continue as chief until age 70.
Ricardi said his hope is to extend his time two-fold.
“I’m not ready to retire, and I can do a lot more,” Ricardi said.
State law, notably Chapter 415 of the Acts of 1987, sets a mandatory retirement age of 65 for police officers, firefighters and correction officers. The only exception is for a city or town to seek a home-rule petition from the Legislature and governor to get around it, usually for very specific terms.
Ricardi said he has his health and the drive to work.
“I want to see my objectives for the department complete,” he said. “This is a great community and I want to continue serving it.”
Selectman Rusell Fox said he appreciated Ricardi’s continued service.
“I want to thank the chief for considering staying on,” Fox said. “It’s a great opportunity for the Town of Southwick.”
Selectman Chairman Joseph Deedy pointed out that the Board’s vote was the first step of many to extending the chief’s contract. The question must go before Town Meeting for approval, as well.
