Melrose Police Chief To Retire

MELROSE, MA — Police Chief Mike Lyle will retire this fall as he approaches the the state's mandatory retirement age, ending a 36-year run with the department.

Lyle will turn 65 this November, which is the age police officers, firefighters and corrections officers must retire, according to state law.

The city will conduct a nationwide search with the help of a municipal recruiting consultant.

Lyle, a Melrose High graduate, became a Melrose police officer in 1986, ascending to traffic officer, sergeant and lieutenant before becoming chief.

"For decades, Chief Lyle has helped to develop the next generation of law enforcement and has shown the true value of community policing," Mayor Paul Brodeur said in a statement. "I am grateful for his service to the City of Melrose and congratulate him as he enters this next chapter of his life. A more formal recognition of his commitment to Melrose and his career will follow in November."

The city is tasking Municipal Resources Inc. to help recruit its next police chief. MRI will work with the city and "significant community input" to develop an idea candidate profile, the city said. That includes the DEI Task Force, police department and Chamber of Commerce, according to the city.

"We were clear that the selected firm must have a nationwide focus and presence, and that they engage with community members during the recruitment process," Brodeur said.

The recruitment process is expected to take about 3-4 months after it begins, with a target date of Sept. 1.

"The early announcement gives the City the much-needed time to make the best decision for the future safety of the Melrose community," Brodeur said. "It also gives our community members ample time and opportunity to weigh in on what they believe are the most important qualities in our next police chief."

MRI has helped other Massachusetts communities recruit and select police chiefs in Andover, Haverhill, Middleton, North Andover and other cities and towns.