It was a fond farewell for longtime Salisbury Township Chief of Police Allen W. Stiles.

After 25 years as police chief in Salisbury, Stiles’ retirement was accepted by the Salisbury Township Board of Commissioners by a vote of 4-0, with one commissioner absent, at the June 27 meeting.

Commissioner Joanne Ackerman made the motion, seconded by Conn, to accept Stiles’ retirement.

In a separate vote, commissioners voted 4-0 to approve a resolution, with board of commissioners Vice President Debra Brinton making the motion and Conn seconding it, to appoint Sgt. Kevin Soberick as Salisbury Township acting police chief.

Commissioners also approved a resolution, also by a 4-0 vote, to transfer the chief’s firearm to Stiles, with Conn making the motion, seconded by board of commissioners Vice President Debra Brinton.

Stiles was presented with a resolution and commemorative plaque for his years of service by board of commissioners President Robert Martucci Jr.

In introducing the resolution, Salisbury Township Manager Cathy Bonaskiewich said of Stiles, “He’s dedicated and well-accomplished and we will miss him.”

“It’s been a fantastic place to work. It’s a great township. Thank you for letting me have the job and keeping the job,” Stiles said.

Bonaskiewich said of the resolution on Stiles’ retirement and Soberick’s appointment, “That will be effective July 12, so that there will be a smooth transition.”

Salisbury commissioners voted unanimously 5-0 at the May 23 meeting to approve a Lafayette College Meyner Center proposal for police recruitment services.

David Woglom, associate director for public service, The Robert B. and Helen S. Meyner Center for the Study of State and Local Government, Lafayette College, is the consultant assisting township officials in choosing Stiles’ successor.

Stiles observed his 25th anniversary as Salisbury police chief in June. He was eligible to retire June 1.