By Jen Samuel, Managing Editor
HIGHTSTOWN – Chief of Police James Eufemia has spent more than 30 years serving the community as a member of local law enforcement.
He is now set to retire from the Hightstown Police Department on September 1, 2011.
"It’s really become a way of life," Chief Eufemia told the Herald after Monday night’s council meeting.
His retirement was announced toward the end of the meeting.
“Thank you, Chief,” said Councilmember Skye Gilmartin.
Those words were repeated several times by audience members and other elected officials.
Mike Theokas was one of several residents to recognize the chief for his years of service.
“I just want to thank him for his years of service,” said Mr. Theokas during closing public comment. He called the chief “a real Hightstown man.”
Chief Eufemia’s family joined him at the meeting for the announcement.
“When it comes to the borough, he’s always tried to make it better,” said Darek Hahn during public comment.
Audience and council members gave a round of applause in acknowledgement of Chief Eufemia’s service.
A resolution approving the chief’s retirement plans with the borough passed 5-1. Councilmember Isabel McGinty voted against the measure.
After the meeting, Chief Eufemia recalled to the Herald that he had begun his career 33 years ago as a dispatcher.
He then moved on to work in the police office, he said—on September 7, 1981.
During his career, he" advanced through the ranks," the Chief explained.
And ten years ago, on April 16, 2001, he was named Hightstown’s new chief of police.
"It’s a complete career," Chief Eufemia said.
Chief Eufemia paid tribute to his family.
Also during Monday’s late-night meeting, the 2011 budget passed 6-0.
Additionally, Ms. McGinty resigned from her position as council president.
To learn more about Monday’s meeting, pick up the next copy of the Herald out this Friday.

