Changing of the Guard: Bernards Township Police Chief to Retire, Deputy Chief Steps Up

Basking Ridge, NJ — After serving the Bernards Township’s community for more than 26 years, Police Chief Jon Burger is retiring.

Chief Burger has just been a tremendous asset to our community. Always going above and beyond for all of our residents,” said Committeewoman Jennifer Asay at the meeting. The Township Committee unanimously accepted his resignation, effective March 1, at the Feb. 25 meeting. “Although my decision to retire from the Bernards Township Police Department was hard, I can say it was an honor and a pleasure to work alongside the women and men both past and present,” said Burger.

The Bernards Township Community is unlike any other. We are very blessed to always have a Mayor and Township Committee comprised of some of the finest residents. The elected officials have always had the best interests of the Town at heart. They have supported the first responders and provided what is necessary to perform their jobs and responsibilities. We have the finest and most professional police officers showing up to perform their duties daily. The succession plan the Mayor and Township Committee have chosen sets the police department and its leadership on a continued trajectory of excellence and always seeking to be better than yesterday.”

Burger’s Career

Burger has been serving in the Bernards Township Police Department since November 1998 when he was first hired. In 2004, Burger became a Detective and was promoted to Detective Sergeant in 2011. In 2011, he also completed his master’s degree at Seton Hall University with a degree in Human Resources. He was then promoted to Lieutenant in April 2018 and Captain in June 2022. In 2023, Burger was promoted to Police Chief. “Jon has had an extraordinary career, and I have gotten to know him personally,” said Deputy Mayor Andrew McNally.

“He is a man of impeccable integrity, dedication, and character. He’s genuine. A man who deeply cares about his department and the community he serves. And he is the role model for all officers, both here in Bernards and elsewhere.” Asay looked back on the past year when she worked closely with Burger when the Township saw an uptick in home burglaries. “This man modeled behavior. He ran extra shifts, he was doing them at night himself during a time when many residents were concerned. He just always went above and beyond,” said Asay. “I am just truly grateful for his leadership and for his contributions to all of us as residents, and he’ll leave big shoes, but he has earned this opportunity, and I wish him well in his next chapter.”

Committee woman Ana Duarte McCarthy also thanked Burger for his service to the community. “He established a positive and thriving work environment and culture and ensured the safety and security of our community and did so seeking innovative strategies, maintaining a top team of officers, and leading by example,” said McCarthy. “He impressed me, including among other characteristics with his commitment to integrity and personally. He was a good partner and a friend to me.”

Appointment of New Leadership

At the same meeting, the Township Committee appointed Deputy Chief Timothy King as the new Police Chief, effective March 1, with an annual salary of $200,000. Lt. Michael Sweeney was also promoted to Deputy Chief effective March 1 at an annual salary of $179,000. A swearing-in ceremony for King and Sweeney’s new positions will be held at the March 11 Township Committee meeting. “The newly appointed Chief Tim King and Deputy Chief Mike Sweeney will carry the police department forward. I know the residents will be happy and satisfied with their leadership,” said Burger.

“As for me, I had a wonderful career over the past 28 years and will be forever grateful to the Township. My very first Police Sergeant I worked for told me many years ago ‘kid, as long as you can look in the mirror after it’s all over and be proud of the work you have done regardless of your title, then you did a good job’. I can absolutely look in the mirror today and say I am proud of the reflection. I wish nothing but the best for the future of this Police Department as well as the community.”

Effects on You

The retirement of Police Chief Jon Burger and the appointment of Deputy Chief Timothy King as the new Police Chief can have a direct impact on the residents of Bernards Township. With new leadership in place, there may be changes in the way law enforcement is conducted, new strategies implemented, and different community engagement initiatives. It is important for residents to stay informed about these changes and actively participate in community discussions to ensure the safety and well-being of the township.

Effects on the World

While the retirement of a police chief in Bernards Township may seem like a local event, it reflects a broader trend of succession planning and leadership changes in law enforcement agencies worldwide. The appointment of new leadership, such as Deputy Chief Timothy King, signifies a shift towards a new era of policing, possibly emphasizing community policing, transparency, and accountability. These changes can set a precedent for other police departments around the world to prioritize integrity, dedication, and community service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the retirement of Police Chief Jon Burger and the appointment of Deputy Chief Timothy King mark a significant moment in the history of the Bernards Township Police Department. Chief Burger’s legacy of dedication and service will be remembered, while the new leadership promises to continue the department’s commitment to excellence and community safety. As residents, it is important to support the new leadership and actively engage in the ongoing efforts to make Bernards Township a safe and thriving community.