Mayor Mike Farr, left, awards former Police Chief Rodney Harr, center, with a special proclamation, joined by new Police Chief Todd Farr.

GRIDLEY (MPG) - At the Nov. 19 City Council meeting, a special recognition was given to outgoing Gridley Police Chief, Rodney Harr. Many colleagues and friends turned out for the event.                

Mayor Mike Farr read an official proclamation as a tribute to the many years of service that Harr gave as Chief of Police to the cities of Gridley and Biggs. Similar framed proclamations were presented on behalf of Congressman Doug LaMalfa, by Teri DuBose and Senator Brian Dahle by Tasha Weaver.

Another special recognition was given to Chief Harr by Tasha Weaver on behalf of Senator Brian Dahle.

Harr served on the force for 33 years. Of those years, he advanced to the roles of detective, narcotics detective, sergeant in 2009, lieutenant in 2019 and was promoted to chief in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Harr spent a great deal of time imparting his exemplary skills and knowledge in the mentoring of other officers, while maintaining the highest standards. Harr’s institutional and policy knowledge, integrity and expertise made a lasting impression on Gridley and all those with whom he associated.

Harr’s wife, Becky, has served as a fellow officer, and his mother, Liz Lewis, was a dispatcher for many years.

Chief Harr (third from right) is joined by all of his colleagues who showed their support.

The mayor invited the public to express their appreciation for Chief Harr’s service. Former Gridley City Administrator Cliff Wagner, current City Administrator Elisa Arteaga, City Attorney Tony Galyean and Fire Chief Chip Fowler, among others, praised Harr’s contributions to the safety of the cities of Gridley and Biggs.

Harr expressed heartfelt thanks to all in attendance for their unwavering support, especially, each City Council member.

“I don’t believe there was a request that I asked for that was ever denied or voted against. That’s a rarely seen occasion, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you very much,” Harr said.