Mike Calhoun, the Police Chief and Director of Public Safety for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the longest serving member in the history of the Police Department, will retire at the end of this year.
Calhoun announced his decision to members of the Police Department this week and then addressed the city’s senior staff.
“Í am so blessed to have worked my entire law enforcement career with such a great organization, outstanding staff and wonderful people in the community,” said Calhoun, 55, who has been with the department for 32 years. “I’m so grateful to my entire staff for their continuous dedication, support and professionalism.”
Calhoun joined the Carmel Police Department in 1984 as a police officer. He rose through the ranks to become a Field Training Officer, Sergeant, Commander, Interim Police Chief and, in 2012, Chief of Police. In 2012, he was also given the title Director of Public Safety. For four months in late 2015 and early this year he served as acting City Administrator. He was a reserve office for the city of Pacific Grove for three years before formally joining the Carmel Police Department.
“Chief Calhoun has dedicated his entire public service career to our Village, and I am grateful for both his commitment to our residents and guests, as well as his exemplary love for the community,” said Carmel City Administrator Chip Rerig. “He has acted as my mentor since I returned to the city and has fulfilled that role for many others – and not just those in public safety. He will be missed.”
Calhoun is the 10th police chief in the history of Carmel-by-the-Sea, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. One of his last duties will be working on the special activities in connection with the centennial observances.
As Director of Public Safety, Calhoun also oversees Carmel Fire and Ambulance, Emergency Management Operations, and the city’s contract with the Monterey Fire Department. He was a founding member of the city’s Special Response Team.
Calhoun was born in the old Monterey Hospital, grew up in Pacific Grove and is a graduate of Pacific Grove High. He earned an Associate of Arts Degree at Monterey Peninsula College, a Bachelor’s Degree in business management from Golden Gate University and many additional certificates for completing courses in law enforcement. Among them was an Executive Management Degree from the Commission of Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST).
Reflecting on his long career law enforcement, Calhoun said:
“My leadership philosophy has always been to help guide the people around me, help them learn vital skills and give them the knowledge and opportunity that will both improve their performance and help them grow as people.”
The Department consists of 15 sworn officers and 10 non-sworn personnel.
Calhoun said highlights of his career include working on the visit of Pope John Paul II to the Monterey Peninsula in 1987 and getting to know and work with Clint Eastwood when he was the mayor of Carmel, 1986-1988, and subsequently.
Calhoun said he would greatly miss being part of Carmel on a daily basis.
“Many residents and business owners still remember my days on patrol as a 23-year-old police recruit,” he said. “I have forged many relationships over the years and will always hold Carmel in a special place in my heart. It will always be my home away from home.”
Calhoun is married and has two daughters.
