Farmington honors retiring police chief and longtime public works employee

The Farmington City Council and community members on May 19 honored the retirements of Police Chief Gary Rutherford and public works employee Jeff Jones, recognizing their combined 45 years of service to Farmington.

The retirements were noted during the council’s announcements portion of the meeting. Public works superintendent Eric Whitmer said Jeff Jones began with the city in February 2003 and had worked 22 years for the city, including 20 years in the public works department. Whitmer said, “I’d like to take a few moments to recognize the 22 years that Jeff has served the city of Farmington,” and noted Jones had run the same plow route for two decades.

Police Chief Gary Rutherford, who told the council he began his law enforcement career in 1995 and joined the Farmington Police Department in 2002, also was recognized. A series of remarks from department members and council members praised Rutherford’s leadership. In a prepared tribute, a deputy said Rutherford “created community policing before it was a thing.” Deputy Chief Constantino, who was identified in the meeting as Rutherford’s longtime partner, said Rutherford had served as a mentor, SWAT leader and commander and that “when he spoke we listened not out of fear or formality but because he had earned our respect through action.”

Rutherford addressed the council and audience and described his approach to the job: “When I stepped into it, I did like I do with most things. I stepped into it hard and I mashed the gas and I’ve had my foot against the firewall for the better part of 7 years.” He said he was “a little bit tired” and expressed gratitude for his time with the city. Members of the council and other speakers shared memories and thanked both retirees for their service; several speakers specifically noted Rutherford’s role in community events such as the department open house and Toys for Town.

Jeff Jones was not present at the meeting; the council presented certificates and said a more formal recognition would follow. Council members and city staff also noted that Rutherford’s formal retirement date was coming that week and that additional remarks would occur at other upcoming events.

No formal council action was required or taken to approve the retirements; the items were ceremonial recognitions included in the meeting announcements.

The council moved on to other agenda items after the recognitions, including the consent agenda and routine reports.