Police Chief Kathy Lester to Retire May 15; Deputy Chief Zachary Bales Named Interim

Chief Kathy Lester will retire May 15 after 32 years; City Manager Maraskeshia Smith names Deputy Chief Zachary Bales interim to ensure a smooth transition.

Chief Kathy Lester will retire on May 15 after a distinguished 32-year career with the department. Her announced retirement marks the end of a long chapter in local public safety leadership and begins a planned transition intended to preserve stability and continuity in policing services.

Throughout her 32 years, Chief Kathy Lester has been a visible presence in the community and within the department. Under her tenure, the department focused on community engagement, officer training, and crime reduction strategies that emphasized both public safety and trust. Residents and city officials alike have recognized Lester’s commitment to service, making her retirement an important moment for the city.

To maintain leadership continuity, City Manager Maraskeshia Smith will appoint Deputy Chief Zachary Bales as interim chief following Lester’s departure. Deputy Chief Bales, who has served in senior roles within the department, will step into the interim chief position to oversee day-to-day operations and keep strategic projects on track. The appointment underscores the city’s priority of a smooth leadership transition and uninterrupted public safety services.

The interim period will give City Manager Maraskeshia Smith and city leaders time to evaluate long-term leadership needs and begin a formal search for a permanent police chief. During this time, Deputy Chief Zachary Bales will be expected to lead the department, continue community outreach efforts, and work with staff to sustain ongoing initiatives. City officials say maintaining open communication with residents and stakeholders will be central to the process.

As the city prepares for this leadership change, community members are encouraged to stay informed about transition plans and public safety priorities. Chief Kathy Lester’s retirement after 32 years is an opportunity to recognize her service and also to support the department as Deputy Chief Zachary Bales assumes interim leadership. The careful appointment by City Manager Maraskeshia Smith aims to ensure steady governance, continuity in policing, and a respectful, organized search for the next permanent chief.

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