Swarthmore honors retiring police chief
SWARTHMORE >> It has been a time of transition in the borough. Since the beginning of the year, Marty Spiegel was appointed mayor as Tim Kearney departed for the state Senate. Sgt. Ray Stufflet was selected as the new police chief.
At council’s March meeting, the board and community honored Police Chief Brian Craig on his retirement. Council President David Creagan noted Craig came to the borough with 18 of service with the Philadelphia Police Department. He was sworn in as Swarthmore’s chief in October 1998 and announced last year he’d be retiring, giving council the opportunity for a thorough search for his successor.
“It was a real pleasure to work with Chief Craig for seven years,” Creagan said as the chair of public safety. “He improved relations with the community as a whole, and formed closer and positive relations with Swarthmore College.”
Creagan also said the unknowns about Craig were that he and his wife enjoyed the Jaguar Auto Club, and they have a particular attachment for Disney World, particularly due to family ties in Florida. Fittingly, Creagan, on behalf of council, presented Craig with a salutary award along with a somewhat esoteric book on the “Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World” to be explored.
On behalf of state Rep. Leann Krueger-Braneky, D-161 of Swarthmore, Spiegel read a resolution presented by the House of Representatives citing his accomplishments and expressing appreciation for Craig’s service. Kearney, D-26 of Swarthmore, was on hand to present similar accolades on behalf of the Senate. Both documents become part of the record of those legislative branches.
Craig, with his wife Pauline at his side throughout, spoke only of others.
“What a pleasure it has been to serve with officers at a level unparalleled in integrity and dedication,” said Craig. “I want to thank the members of this council and all the ones who came before for their support, and to allow (the police department) to go on with our duties without and political influence.”
With what would seem expected humility, Craig said, “I am trying to send out personal thank you notes.”
Council’s agenda was otherwise very light. The board approved a contract for the purchase of electricity with Constellation NewEnergy through the Pennsylvania Municipal League. Also approved was authorization to advertise and send Ordinance 1085 (Senior Cooperative Housing) to the Delaware County Planning Department for review. The ordinance can be found on the borough website.