Lisle police chief retiring at end of month

Lisle police Chief Michael Damico is retiring after 37 years with the village.

He will step down Dec. 1 and Deputy Chief Jim Kosatka, a department veteran for more than 30 years, will serve as acting chief until village officials name a permanent replacement.

Damico began his career with the village as a patrol officer and worked his way up through the department. He served as a detective, sergeant, and commander before assuming the chief's position in 1995.

Damico oversaw the transition to a new police department building in 2000. Village officials said he was instrumental in overseeing various community policing and crime prevention programs, as well as enforcement initiatives that included the canine drug enforcement unit and participation with the sheriff's department Narcotics Team, and Special Response Team.

Mayor Joe Broda said Damico is responsible for the quality of today's department.

“He has truly professionalized the Lisle police and the standards we have today are because of his determination and willpower,” Broda said. “He is also the type of guy who doesn't expect you to do it unless he can do it. He's out there with the officers, on call, at major accident and crime scenes. He is hands-on, but he is also a true delegator and doesn't take away your responsibility.”

Damico plans to spend more time with family, but Village Manager Jerry Sprecher said the decision to retire was difficult for Damico, who has “loved his work.”

Sprecher and Broda were not surprised by Damico's announcement Thursday; they said he began mulling retirement several months ago. But officials were patient with his decision in an effort to respect his long-standing career.

“We wanted him to go out on his terms,” Broda said.

Village officials said their search for Damico's successor will begin within the police department.

“I believe there is some interest and we'll see who applies,” Broda said. “I think we certainly do have some qualified employees.”

If they don't find a good fit for the post, Broda said Lisle officials will launch an external search.