Long-time borough police chief to retire
By Kelly O’Hara, Staff Writer, The Times
Kennett Square Police Chief Edward Zunino is retiring — Borough Council voted to accept his letter or retirement, Monday night.
KENNETT — The Kennett Square Borough Council voted to accept the letter of retirement from long-time borough Police Chief Edward Zunino at its meeting on Monday night.
Chief Zunino served the borough for more than 40 years. He was born and raised in Kennett Square and began his career in 1974 on the Auxiliary Police. He became a part time sworn officer in 1975 and then a full-time officer in 1976. He has served as a patrolmen, detective, lieutenant and ultimately, Chief of Police.
Mayor Matthew Fetick read a letter of appreciation at the meeting. Of Zunino’s service, the mayor says “Throughout his career, he took the lead in investigating homicides, burglaries, gang violence and more. With his significant relationships in the Community he was able to build trust and solve crimes that may have otherwise gone unsolved. He is well known and respected by residents and business owners alike.” Fetick’s letter said.
The council members thanked the chief for his exemplary service and acknowledged that these “were big shoes to fill.”
Borough resident John Thomas, who said he has known Zunino and his wife for many years, said “they are good, honest people and I hope that they can now enjoy retirement.”
Mayor Fetick also said that he hopes that Zunino and his wife “can now get a good night’s sleep and relax knowing that the chief is out of harm’s way.”
The council will be forming a search committee to look for the next chief. The committee is expected to begin the search in the fall. Council member Wayne Braffman believes that the vote for the new chief will be the single most important vote that they will make during their time as council members and wants to make sure they get it right. He suggested that the council determine the criteria for candidate selection in advance of the start of starting process to ensure that the council is unanimous in their priorities and ultimately, their vote when the new Chief is selected.
Council member LaToya Myers suggested that their be a representative from the Advisory Committee for Latino Affairs be a part of the selection committee.
In the meantime, current officer Bill Holdsworth has been promoted to Lieutenant and will be the temporary officer in charge until a replacement chief is hired.
