Summit council affirms appointment of Ryan Peters as next police chief

The Summit Common Council confirmed the mayor’s appointment of Captain Ryan Peters to be the next chief of the Summit Police Department by unanimous voice vote.

Mayor Elizabeth Fagan introduced Captain Peters and praised his long record of service to the community. She said his résumé was “very impressive” and noted his reputation within the department. At the council meeting, council members thanked outgoing Chief Zagorski for his decades of service and welcomed Captain Peters.

Captain Peters addressed the council and the public, saying, "I stand before you tonight deeply honored and humbled to accept the role of chief of police." He pledged to lead the department with transparency and accountability and to continue partnerships with schools, residents and local organizations to maintain public safety.

Council members spoke in support. Councilman Smallwood, who said he has known Peters for years through youth programs, called the appointment “heartwarming” and praised Peters’s community focus. Councilwoman Hamlet and others noted Peters’s operational experience and leadership in support services and training.

The council took no additional policy actions at the meeting beyond confirming the appointment. A ceremonial swearing‑in and public send‑offs were discussed but not scheduled during the meeting.