Elyria police chief honors career; council and administration name interim chief

Chief Pelco announced his retirement at the Jan. 21 Elyria City Council meeting, and council members and city officials publicly thanked him for more than three decades of service to the city. Safety Service Director Panowski said the civil-service process to select a new permanent police chief is underway and announced Captain Michael Grooms will serve as interim chief effective Feb. 1.

Why it matters: Leadership changes in the police department affect operations and continuity of public-safety services. The interim appointment will allow the department to continue operations while a formal civil-service selection process is completed.

What was said: Chief Pelco told the council he had served the city for about 31 years and described his time with the department as “an honor and privilege,” thanking officers, staff and community partners. “As I move into the next chapter of my life, I want you all to know that my commitment to the city will never waver,” Pelco said in remarks recorded in the transcript.

Safety Service Director Panowski said he notified department captains and Chief Pelco of his decision and appointed Captain Michael Grooms as interim chief, effective Feb. 1. Panowski said the civil-service commission had approved the process to select a new permanent police chief and that the selection would take additional time.

Council reaction: Multiple councilmembers offered personal thanks and praise. Councilman Callahan said Pelco “came into this council chambers every night, with a very positive approach.” Councilman Lupien (also referred to as Lipien in the record) and others recounted Pelco’s role expanding traffic patrol and the department’s capabilities.

What’s next: Captain Michael Grooms will lead the department in an interim capacity while the civil-service process for a permanent chief is completed; the timeline for the full appointment was not specified in the public record.