Police Commissioner Gerard Kneisel took his official oath of office at Village Hall on May 7. The Board of Trustees appointed him chairman of the Board of Police Commissioners and a member of the Traffic Commission, with both terms set to expire on April 5, 2027.
Kneisel’s appointment is significant for local public safety leadership. As commissioner, he will oversee key police operations and participate in traffic management decisions for Garden City.
Kneisel has served with the Garden City Police Department for 34 years, progressing through positions including Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Inspector. He has also worked as a Firearms Instructor, Department Armorer, and Instructor for Training and Policy. During his tenure, he managed the implementation of upgraded software systems covering policy management, training records, computer-aided dispatching, and recording functions.
He previously served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and holds a degree in criminal justice from John Jay College. Kneisel has supervised police officers for nearly 25 years.
“Thank you for the trust and faith that you’ve extended to me with this appointment,” Kneisel said following swearing-in ceremonies at Village Hall. “I look forward to serving the Board and the public.”
