I was happy and sad to read the article "Chief Tim Matelski Sees Many Changes in 32 Years on City Police Force" in the December 17 issue of The St. Ignace News.

I've known Mr. Matelski for a while now and the stories of reflection of his 32 years on the St. Ignace police force were enjoyable to read but I am sad to see Mr. Matelski leave, as we are losing a person who was really dedicated to his job and really cared for those he protected and served in the community.

What I respected about Mr. Matelski the most was that he was always there, could always be seen at public events, promoting not only his department, public safety in general, but the wellness of the community of St. Ignace, as well. I also admired him for just being down-to-earth with those he was in contact with. Also, thankfully, he was humble and had a sense of humor, as being chief of police, especially in a small town, can become quite political and often arduous, from solving budget problems in his own department to the many individual problems he faces each day within the community. He usually is able to keep an even keel, even if it's a ribbing at his own expense .

I know he kept his radio close to him at all times, even off-duty, always ready to serve, no matter what time of the day or night. He spent many hours in his office writing grants to make sure St. Ignace citizens got the most from its police department. The economic recession just made him work harder at finding funding for his department, which meant more hours and paperwork. But he did it.
Ryan Schlehuber
Belding