Council names interim officer in charge as police chief retires; approves $60,000 exit payment

The Borough of Old Tappan Mayor and Council read and adopted a resolution appointing Captain Robert Wacht as officer in charge of the police department effective December 1, 2025, to cover the period between Chief Joseph Tracy’s retirement and the appointment of a successor.

The council’s discussion focused on timing and authority: members noted the possibility of a gap between December 31 and the borough reorganization meeting on January 5 if appointments or swearing‑in occur after the holiday period. Staff advised designating an officer in charge so the department has clear authority to perform administrative tasks — including signing permits and other official duties — and to avoid a lapse in lawful command.

Council members agreed the natural progression would make the captain the logical interim officer. Members asked staff to monitor the schedule for third‑party interviews of chief candidates (then expected to occur December 15) and to prepare an additional resolution on December 18 if needed to cover any remaining gap.

Separately, the council discussed the outgoing chief’s exit contract that had been circulated earlier. A motion was made to grant a $60,000 lump‑sum exit payment plus any post‑retirement benefits required by ordinance; the council seconded the motion and recorded affirmative roll‑call votes. Members said the payment will be memorialized in a resolution and is included in the upcoming budget.

The meeting record shows the council conducted the roll call for the appointment resolution and later for the exit‑payment motion; councilmembers confirmed they would follow the ordinance provisions for any additional post‑retirement benefits.