Junction City officials have announced that Police Chief Tim Brown will retire from the Junction City Police Department, effective June 17, after 37-and-a-half years of public service.

Brown tells JC Post the issue that he will retire arose this week. “I’ve got some medical issues that I’m dealing with, and my intention is to leave the JCPD. My last day will be June 3.”

Brown said he told his staff and others that he works with at City Hall about the decision this week. “Very difficult decision for me and my family after 37 years of service with the City. We felt that overall this was the best…be able to focus on this issue that I’ve got going on.”

Brown thanked the citizens of Junction City for allowing him to serve them for these many years, and noted he has been blessed to have a wonderful staff like he has now. “I want to get through this medical issue and be able to enjoy my retirement.”

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel noted, “Be a big loss, but we’re positioned to move forward, and we respect his wishes greatly.” Dinkel added Brown is a highly respected chief, but added, ” I also believe he’s developed this department…I think it’s a credit to him that his department is in a situation without him being there immediately it’ll carry on and be very transparent to the public, and they’ll still get the service that he has instilled in his department over the years.”

There will be a ceremony for friends to honor Chief Brown’s dedication to the City of Junction City and the Junction City Police Department on Friday, June 10 from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Junction City Municipal Court Building at 701 North Jefferson Street.