FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT
CHIEF JOHN ZEBROWSKI SAYREVILLE PD
The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | June 2022
Without question , being Police Chief can be both challenging , as well as , rewarding . It is a position that is unique in nature because of the varied responsibilities and the dynamic interactions between various stakeholders ; within one ’ s agency and community . It ’ s difficult to find a relatable position within other public or private professions . Because we are a very small subset within the law enforcement community there is little commonality beyond peers when stress becomes a factor for the police chief .
Current predictors indicate that the average tenure of a police chief is five years or less with stress leading to exhaustion and disengagement . Given all the negative stressors of the last two and a half years there is little doubt , without a lifeline , the tenure of current and future police chiefs will further decline .
That is why I think the formation of our own Wellness Program is crucial for the wellbeing of our members and profession . With the hope that decisions related to retirement will be based upon career goals rather than for stress related reasons . Utilizing a peer support team our wellness program should prove to be an indispensable tool for helping each other to learn about ourselves , mental health and the importance of seeking assistance early .
Thus far , the response from our members regarding the development of this program has been overwhelming . The committee , chaired by Chief John Russo and Dr . Lew Schlosser has been steadily and carefully building the framework of the program , as well as , soliciting volunteers to serve as peer support chiefs . Once the program is fully built out it will serve as a “ chief centered ” planning process providing the tools and resources to reduce the negative impact of stress and promote the development of individual whole health and wellness . This is long overdue for a profession where stress has become a constant .
Finally , I hope to see many of you at our upcoming conference as we swear in Chief Tom Dellane as our President and the new Board of Officers . As always , it will be a great opportunity to enhance our skills and knowledge while networking and reuniting with so many friendly and familiar faces .
On behalf of the Board and Staff I would like to wish you and your officers a safe and healthy summer season .
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