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PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, Police Officer Richard Gottstine is retiring from the Village of East Aurora after 27 years of service with the East Aurora Police Department; and WHEREAS, Officer Gottstine has dedicated himself to the law enforcement profession and, most importantly, to the people he has sworn to serve.; and, WHEREAS, Officer Gottstine, throughout his career, has exemplified what it means to be a police officer and a public servant. His commitment to the East Aurora Police Department and the community has been unwavering. He has consistently approached his responsibilities with professionalism, compassion, kindness, and a genuine desire to help others. WHEREAS, as a Field Training Officer, Officer Gottstine played an important role in shaping the next generation of police officers. He understood that it was about far more than teaching policies, procedures, and the mechanics of the job. It was about teaching new officers how to conduct themselves, how to treat people with dignity and respect, how to make difficult decisions, and how to carry themselves as true professionals. His guidance, experience, and example have left a lasting impression on the many officers fortunate enough to learn from him. WHEREAS, Officer Gottstine served as President of the Police Benevolent Association for more than 15 years. During that time, he dedicated countless hours representing and advocating for his fellow officers while working to strengthen the department and the profession. His leadership in that role demonstrated his commitment not only to his colleagues, but also to the principles of fairness, integrity, and professionalism that he carried throughout his career. WHEREAS, it is not simply about how an officer performs the job, but also about how an officer treats people. Whether interacting with a member of the public, assisting someone in need, working alongside a fellow officer, or guiding a new member of the department, Officer Gottstine has consistently demonstrated kindness, patience, compassion, and respect. WHEREAS, Officer Gottstine, your dedication to the East Aurora Police Department, your fellow officers, and the communities you have served has made a lasting difference. Your leadership, mentorship, and commitment to being a true professional have helped shape this department and the officers who serve within it.; and NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Luke E. Wochensky, on behalf of the Village Board and all of our citizens, extend sincerest appreciation for his distinguished service and best wishes for a very happy retirement. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Village of East Aurora, New York to be affixed this 8th day of August 2026. _________________________________ Luke Wochensky, Mayor