Council says farewell to retiring Snoqualmie Police Chief Jim Schaffer

Published 11:41 am Saturday, June 30, 2012

In Jim Schaffer’s 23 years with Snoqualmie, he watched the city grow from from 1,500 residents to more than 11,000.

This Saturday, at midnight, Schaffer bids farewell to the city’s police department, and to his two decades as chief of police.

He was honored Monday, June 25, by the Snoqualmie City Council with a presentation and a slideshow of photos of his career, showing him on the beat, at community events, or honoring his department’s exceptional officers.

Schaffer’s had a varied career, as both a municipal officer and as an FBI agent. Briefly, while working for the Issaquah police department, he had a contract placed on his life by a motorcycle gang. In Snoqualmie, he’s been focused on community policing.

Schaffer was praised by council members for his mix of professionalism and common touch.

“We needed that sense of humor,” Mayor Matt Larson said, during Snoqualmie’s busy growth period.

“The chief is a rare person,” he added.

Councilman Jeff MacNichols, who works as a trial defense lawyer, lauded the chief for his work in bridging the gap between what might normally be considered an antagonistic role

“You’re a regular guy,” MacNichols said. “We see you as a friend… It’s a hard job, but you’ve done it with honor and grace.”

“It’s about relationships,” Schaffer explained.

Schaffer said he walks away with a good feeling, “knowing the city is in good hands,” and is better than when he began.

“I’m honored to have served the people of this city,” he said.

Schaffer will spend time with his wife, Lisa, and expects to enjoy his time at property on the Washington coast.