(Additional photograph below.)
Wayne J. Tracy was sworn in Wednesday afternoon as Haverhill’s permanent police chief after holding the job on an acting basis since last October.
Tracy was sworn in by City Clerk Kaitlin M. Wright during a City Hall ceremony with Mayor Melinda E. Barrett praising the department veteran. Barrett later read from a statement.
“Chief Tracy is a dedicated public servant who cares deeply about the City of Haverhill where he was born and raised. Over the course of 22 years, he has risen through the ranks, proving his leadership and commitment to the success and well-being of the Haverhill Police Department,” she said.
The mayor acknowledged Tracy’s management during a difficult period following last fall’s resignation of then-Police Chief Robert P. Pistone Jr.
“Most impressively, he led the department through a period of organizational challenge with transparency, accountability and steady command presence. He has the trust of the exemplary men and women who make up the Haverhill Police, and I have faith in him to continue to lead and propel the department forward.”
Tracy also acknowledged the trust placed in him and offered thanks. “I am especially grateful for the support and confidence shown by the men and women of this department. Their endorsement means a great deal to me. I look forward to working alongside our officers, city leaders and community members to continue building trust, enhancing public safety and serving with integrity, respect, and dedication.”
The mayor credited Tracy for quickly bringing “four core departmental values—Integrity, Empathy, Respect and Fairness—into operations, policy and community interactions.” Barrett added, “Notably, Tracy led department-wide transition to body-worn cameras to enhance accountability and evidence-based policing. He also has advanced officer wellness and resilience initiatives, including creation of a dedicated wellness room and expansion of internal support resources.
Besides Barrett, Tracy thanked Ward Councilors Ralph. T. Basiliere, Melissa J. Lewandowski and Michael S. McGonagle for their early pledges of support as well as the rest of the City Council. In a separate statement, Basiliere said, “Wayne Tracy brings exceptional leadership, stability and community engagement.”
As WHAV reported in April, two serving members of the force applied for the chief’s position after it was advertised. While names were not disclosed at the time, Tracy was presumed to be one of the applicants for the job that carries an annual salary of $276,392.
Mayor Melinda E. Barrett speaks after Police Chief Wayne J. Tracy is sworn in. (Courtesy photograph.)