LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Chief Carmen Kesner upon the occasion of
his retirement from the Hamburg Police Department

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and honor
those distinguished officers and citizens who would devote themselves to
public service, demonstrating great courage and diligence in providing
for the care and welfare of the citizens of their communities and this
great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are
certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication,
command the respect and admiration of their community for their exem-
plary contributions and service on behalf of others; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Chief Carmen
Kesner upon the occasion of his retirement from the Hamburg Police
Department on Saturday, January 23, 2010; and
WHEREAS, Chief Kesner, who rose through the ranks from patrolman to
become the Town of Hamburg's fifth police chief, has officially retired;
and
WHEREAS, Chief Kesner's been hearing from patrol officers and police
chiefs, command officers and residents who are sorry to see him retire
after nearly three years as chief; he had been named captain in 1999 and
assistant chief in 2000, and later became chief in 2007; he also worked
security for the Buffalo Bills for 23 years; and
WHEREAS, Chief Kesner worked in the Erie County Jail before being
named to the Hamburg Police Department 34 years ago; he had an open-door
policy and always tried to get the most up-to-date equipment to help his
officers perform their jobs; and
WHEREAS, Chief Kesner oversaw the creation of the new dispatch center
and prisoner lockup area, and changes in uniforms designed for activity;
he added a police dog, Harley-Davidson motorcycle and new black-and-
white cruisers; he also instituted a golf tournament and barbecue for
police officers and dispatchers, and used the leftover funds to sponsor
a barbecue during the Erie County Fair for officers and their families;
and
WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Joan, their children,
and grandchildren, all of whom feel privileged to be a part of his life
and rejoice in his achievements; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those dedicated
public servants who unselfishly devote their lives to the preservation
of order and the protection of others are worthy and due full praise for
their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Chief Carmen Kesner upon the occasion of his retirement from the
Hamburg Police Department; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Chief Carmen Kesner.