Police Chief Rowe Announces Retirement

Springfield Police Chief Lynn Rowe announced Monday morning that he’s retiring. KSMU’s Jennifer Moore reports.

Rowe has served as Springfield's Police Chief since 1993. His retirement will be effective January 15th, according to a statement released from the city.

During his time at the top post, the department has introduced new technology like using computers in police cars and has brought back the city’s canine unit.

He has also witnessed the budget crisis surrounding the struggling Police and Fire Pension plan, which has led to a hiring freeze on new police officers and cuts to programs.Retiring at the same time as Chief Rowe is Marilyn Grier, Senior Executive Secretary to the Police Chief. Grier is currently the longest-serving employee for the City of Springfield with nearly 45 years of service. She has worked in the Police Department for her entire career, serving under five chiefs.

In the statement, City Manager Greg Burris said he plans to name an interim Chief before beginning a nationwide search for Rowe's successor.

For KSMU News, I’m Jennifer Moore.