OBSERVER file photo Dunkirk Police Chief David Ortolano is retiring on Friday.

Dunkirk city officials heaped praise on Police Chief David Ortolano at his final Common Council meeting Tuesday. Ortolano also offered some reflections on his decades in service.

Ortolano, chief of the department since 2005, is retiring Friday. He announced his decision Tuesday morning.

“Calling it a day,” he said. “It truly has been an honor and a privilege to serve this community and it has been a very distinct honor to serve as the head of the Dunkirk Police Department.”

Ortolano added, “My first love has always been my family, but my second love has been the police department and the community that we serve.” He thanked city officials “for their support and understanding in providing the resources that have allowed us to provide a safe community for our residents, businesses and visitors.”

Ortolano also lauded his fellow city department heads, “but I have to say a special thank you to my good friend and my public safety partner, (Fire) Chief Mike Edwards. We’ve been through a lot of good times, Mike, and through a lot of tragic times in this community. You have always stood beside me, no questions asked. The relationship between our departments has never been better, and that’s because of you.”

He commented that “this is truly one heck of an amazing community that we have here, folks. They have always stepped up and stood beside the police department for anything that we have needed. Without them, we could not have the success in public safety that we do in this community.”

Ortolano ended his “thank yous” with the Dunkirk Police Department. “They’re the best damn group of police officers any chief could dream of having,” he said.

The chief concluded that his goal has been to leave the department and community better than when he started, and he thinks that has happened. “It’s been a hell of a ride, and I can honestly tell you, I would do it all over again in the same exact way,” he said — receiving a standing ovation as he sat down.

Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowaisz noted Ortolano advocated for the National Night Out and neighborhood watch programs, “which have strengthened the bonds between the residents and law enforcement.”

“His dedication, leadership, and hard work will certainly be missed in this community — although I just have to note he is not quite done yet, so, give him a few more days before we congratulate him on his full retirement,” Wdowiasz concluded.

Councilperson-at-large Nick Weiser said Ortolano “has been an unwavering presence in our community dedicating his career to ensuring the safety and well being of our residents. His leadership and commitment to public service have made Dunkirk a better, safer place for all of us. (His) impact will undoubtedly be felt for many years to come.”

Councilperson James Stoyle, a strong advocate of the Dunkirk Police Department who complimented Ortolano for something at almost every meeting, had a simpler, yet elegant, statement of respect. When asked during councilpersons’ report time if he had anything to say, Stoyle replied, “Nothing — except chief,” saluting him, “as always.”