MONROE, Conn. — Michael Vitello served as chairman of the Monroe Police Commission for nearly a decade, weighing in on local traffic, crime, citizen complaints and police personnel issues, as well as participating in the administrative hiring and evaluation processes, including decisions to promote Keith White to serve as chief and Stephen Corrone as captain. At the end of Wednesday night’s commission meeting, Vitello announced his retirement.
“I just want to thank all of the commissioners who I’ve served with,” Vitello said. “My heart will always be here in the town of Monroe and I wish nothing but the best for the future of the Monroe Police Department. If I can ever do anything for anybody, give me a call.”
“Thank you for all your time and thank you for all your years,” Chief White said.
Vice Chairman Daniel Hunsberger, who served with Vitello throughout his run, said he enjoyed his friendship, while working together to make the police department the best it can be.
“It’s been a pleasure to work together,” Hunsberger said. “Mike’s had a vision of the department, I think, that’s consistent with what a majority of us on the board and in the department have wanted to have.”
“I want to add something on the quality of your leadership,” said Edward J. Deak Jr., a longtime commissioner. “I think it’s been top notch, always having the town first in your mind and in your heart. You did a great job as far as I’m concerned.”
During the meeting, the commission unanimously voted to appoint Commissioner David Giesmer as its new chairman. Prior to the vote, Giesmer, who wasn’t present at the meeting, was reached on speaker phone by Vitello to confirm his acceptance of the responsibility.
Vitello congratulated Giesmer and said he will always be available if he needs help.
On Thursday, First Selectman Terry Rooney issued a statement, praising Vitello for his dedication to the town over the years.
“Mr. Vitello has been a committed volunteer in town for over decade and during that time has built an impressive resume of service in Monroe,” Rooney said. “Known mostly as chairman of the Police Commission, he has done a stand out job regarding police operations and working successfully with the chief of police, police personnel and the other police commissioners.”
“Mr. Vitello served on the EMS building committee during a time when COVID-19 was creating material cost inflation, labor limitations and impacting product availability,” the first selectman said. “His experience and commitment was instrumental in the construction and delivery of the project within what was supported by our community.”
Rooney noted how Vitello recently agreed to serve on the new Facilities Planning Committee, whose charge is to evaluate the conditions and future needs of all facilities in Monroe, including its public schools.
“His experience will be greatly missed in that capacity,” Rooney said. “Mr. Vitello is one of the most altruistic members of our community and although he is moving on, his accomplishments will remain highly respected by those who had the pleasure to work with him.”
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