By MAUREEN DOHERTY
NORTH READING — Plans for the Changing of Command ceremonies to recognize both retiring Police Chief Michael Murphy and incoming Police Chief Mark Zimmerman have been formalized.
Earlier this year, Chief Murphy had informed Town Administrator Michael Gilleberto of his intention to retire effective August 2, which set in motion the search for his replacement. Murphy’s service to the North Reading Police Department has spanned 30 years, including the last 12 years as Chief of Police.
At Monday night’s Select Board meeting, Gilleberto announced that recognition of Chief Murphy will take place at the North Reading Police Station on Tuesday, August 1 and the new Chief of Police will be sworn in the following day.
It is a tradition of the NRPD to hold a Changing of the Guard ceremony on the last day of the chief’s service during which the retiring chief transfers the chief’s authority and leadership of the department to the incoming chief. The public is invited to attend this ceremony on Tuesday, August 1 at 9 a.m.
Limited parking will be available at the police station with overflow parking provided at both the Flint Memorial Library rear lot, 147 Park St., and the rear of the Habitech Communities Building at 148 Park St., which is adjacent to the police station. The ceremony will be approximately 30 minutes long followed by light refreshments.
“I am pleased to formally announce that North Reading Police Lieutenant Mark Zimmerman will succeed Chief Murphy as Chief of Police beginning August 2,” Gilleberto stated, adding, “the public is invited to a swearing-in ceremony for Chief Zimmerman on Wednesday, August 2 at 9 a.m. in the gymnasium at North Reading Middle/High School.”
Gilleberto invited the community to congratulate “both Chief Murphy and soon-to-be Chief Zimmerman” for their accomplishments and service to the town over many decades.
Gilleberto provided a synopsis of Zimmerman’s career experience, which includes four years served in the United States Air Force, five years of service as a firefighter in the city of Lynn, and 30 years as a member of the North Reading Police Department where he steadily rose through the ranks.
“Lt. Zimmerman has held the rank of Lieutenant since 2011 and serves as the Department’s Executive Officer. He joined the Police Department in 1993 and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1999. During his tenure, he has served as the Department’s Civil Rights Officer, Commander of the Honor Guard, Departmental Training Officer, Elderly Affairs Liaison, Domestic Violence Supervisor, and DARE Instructor/Juvenile Officer,” the T.A. stated. “Prior to joining the North Reading Police Department, he served five years in the Lynn Fire Department and served four years in the United States Air Force.”
Editor’s note: This story has been updated from the July 20 print edition.