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Lisle police chief retiring

After accomplishing everything he sought to do during his 34 years with the Lisle Police Department, Chief James Kosatka is ready for another challenge.

Kosatka announced Thursday that he’s retiring on Nov. 27. His departure will come nearly three years since he earned Lisle’s top cop job.

“It’s time, and it’s the right thing to do,” he said. “I’ve had an excellent career.”

That career started in 1979 when a then-24-year-old Kosatka was hired as a Lisle patrol officer. He worked up the ranks from officer to patrol sergeant to detective sergeant and then deputy chief. He was appointed police chief in January 2011.

Village officials say Kosatka assumed responsibility for the department during a period of tough economic times.

He’s credited with implementing a number of cost savings initiatives, including reducing overtime and the number of police vehicles. The village also saved money by transferring its 911 dispatch services to DuComm.

In addition, Kosatka increased the role of community service officers to more effectively utilize patrol officers for true emergency calls, officials said.

“It kind of all came together,” Kosatka said of his time as chief.

Kosatka said he submitted his retirement letter to the village manager last week. He said the part of the job he will miss the most is the people he works with.

But at 59, Kosatka says he’s young enough to explore other careers.

“I’ve accomplished everything I feel I can with the police department,” he said. “It’s time for me to explore other adventures and other chapters somewhere.”

Kosatka received his bachelor’s degree in business management from Benedictine University in 2007. He also is a graduate of Northwestern University’s Police Staff and Command School.

Mayor Joe Broda issued a statement praising Kosatka for dedicating decades of his life to serving and protecting Lisle.

“He generated trust in those whose lives he touched, while always striving to be innovative and improve service to the community,” Broda said. “That is a hard act to follow and Jim will be truly missed.”

Village officials said a search for Kosatka’s replacement will begin soon.

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