Congratulating Chief Daniel Steere on His Retirement

Floor Speech

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Mr. HUIZENGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exemplary career of Daniel Steere, Chief of Police at the Grandville City Police Department. I would like to express my appreciation to Chief Steere for over 37 years of dedicated services to West Michigan and our nation.

Chief Steere's career in law enforcement began in 1982 when he entered the Tampa Police Department Recruit Academy. After graduation, he quickly rose to become a Field Training Officer. Wanting to be closer to family, he moved back to Michigan in 1985, and soon after, found his professional home in the Grandville Police Department. In 1989, Chief Steere became the department's first vice detective and later would serve as the department's first officer assigned to a collaborative drug team.

In 1993, Dan was promoted to Sergeant and was tasked with overseeing the training program for new officers. Beginning in 1996, he became the department's Detective Sergeant and served in that position until his elevation to Deputy Chief in 2008. He served with distinction as Deputy Chief until being promoted to Chief in 2012.

Under Chief Steere's leadership, the department expanded to 26 sworn officers and added a second School Resource Officer position. Additionally, Chief Steere oversaw a department-wide rebrand, including new uniforms and patches for all officers. Exemplifying his successes, Chief Steere spent countless hours each year with the City Parks and Recreation Board to ensure the well-known July 4th celebrations occurred safely and successfully year after year.

Throughout his distinguished career, Chief Steere served with impeccable integrity even when it proved difficult. Aside from dedicating his life to public service, Chief Steere has proudly served as an active participant in our West Michigan community. He gives back by volunteering his time with Rotary International, the YMCA, the Grand Rapids Community College Police Academy Advisory Board, and the Kent Country Corrections Board. None of the above would be possible without the support of his wife Julie, and now adult children Elizabeth, Adam and Emily.

It is because of the leadership and dedication of community members such as Chief Daniel Steere that I am especially proud to serve Michigan's 2nd Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Chief Steere on his well-deserved retirement and thank him for his service to West Michigan and our nation.

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