Windsor Locks Police Commission Chooses a New Chairman

The Windsor Locks Police Commission on Tuesday chose a new chairman.

Kevin Brace, who was elected to the commission in November, was picked by commission members to succeed Neal Cunningham, who decided not to seek another term as chairman.

The commission also voted James Gaylord as vice chairman, and Dennis Gragnolati as secretary.

Cunningham said he was informed recently by Town Clerk William Hamel that officers had to be chosen within 60 days after every election. Cunningham said the commission was well beyond the 60 days.

“I am not running for chairman,” Cunningham said.

“Neal Cunningham has done an excellent job during his multiple years as chairman,” Commission member George Hall.

Brace said he agreed that Cunningham had done a great job as chairman. The commission has been through a lot with the resolution of the Koistinens’ employment in the department, hiring a new officer, searching for a new police chief and working on a nepotism policy for the police department.

“I think (Cunningham) figured it was time,” Brace said.

Brace said he is ready to get to work. He said he has experience chairing a legislative committee connected to his job as a correction officer.

The commission will be working on getting on a police dog for the department and promoting officer to the K-9 unit, Brace said. Commission members will also be updating the rules and regulations of the department, he added.

Brace, who is the newest member if the commission, said he will be able to lean on Gaylord, who has been a chairman in the past, for help and information in heading the commission.

“There’s a wealth of knowledge on the commission,” Brace said. “I feel like the town is in good hands.”

The commission also met in executive session to discuss the search for a new police chief after the candidate they chose, Thomas Fowler, withdrew application last week. Brace said no decision on what they will do next was made.

"The process is still ongoing," Brace said. "There's still a lot of good candidates left on the board."