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Cary mayor announces police chief retirement, recognizes officers, accepts donations and proclaims Fire Prevention Week
Summary
Mayor Mark Kownick announced Chief Finland's intent to retire Jan. 16, 2026; the board honored a recently promoted sergeant, accepted a Crime Stoppers donation for honor guard uniforms, and proclaimed October 2025 Fire Prevention Week focused on lithium-ion battery safety.
Mayor Mark Kownick told the Village of Cary board on Oct. 7 that Police Chief Finland has informed the village of his intent to retire, with an anticipated retirement date of Jan. 16, 2026. The mayor said the village will conduct a regional search for a replacement and encouraged internal candidates to apply.
"We are, humbled by what he's been able to do with our police department," Kownick said, thanking the chief for his leadership. Chief Finland acknowledged the comment and praised department staff and culture.
The board recognized Sergeant Will Hallis on his promotion; Hallis was described as a midnight shift supervisor, firearms instructor and field training officer. Director Simmons said two officers — Officer Curtis Lazarini and Officer Travis Weaver — will participate in the McHenry County Chiefs of Police Association honor guard and modeled the new honor guard uniform.
Kerry Grove Crime Stoppers donated funds to cover honor guard uniforms; Director Simmons said the department did not budget for the $2,263.60 expenditure and the organization agreed to fund the procurement. The village acknowledged an additional donation from the Rotary Club of Cary Grove; the exact amount was not specified during the meeting.
Mayor Kownick proclaimed October 2025 as Fire Prevention Week in Cary, citing the National Fire Protection Association theme "Charge into Fire Safety: lithium-ion batteries in your home" and urging safe charging and recycling of lithium-ion batteries to reduce fire risk.
The village also reminded residents that the fall villagewide curbside brush pickup and hydrant flushing are underway with specific dates for north and south of the railroad tracks, and that Industrial Drive would be closed for sewer work on Oct. 8 and is expected to reopen Oct. 9.
