Board of Police Commissioners - Minutes - 03/04/2026

SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
March 4, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.
PRESENT: Commissioner R. Brule, Commissioner M. Gelinas, Commissioner J.
Dimmock, Commissioner C. Gamble, Commissioner T. Sheridan, Human
Resources Director Christine Walters
DEPARTMENT: Chief M. Balestracci, LT David Ferland, LT N. VanOverloop,
LT P. Flanagan
CALL TO ORDER AND ESTABLISH A QUORUM:
Commissioner Gelinas called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. in the Police Department
Executive Conference Room.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MOTION: Made by Commissioner Dimmock and seconded by Commissioner Brule to enter
into Executive Session, including Chief Balestracci and HR Director Christine Walters at 5:01
p.m. Motion passed unanimously.
The Board came out of Executive Session at 6:04 p.m. No votes or actions were taken while in
Executive Session.
MOTION: Made by Commissioner Sheridan and seconded by Commissioner Dimmock to
appoint Lieutenant David Ferland to Chief of the Waterford Police Department, effective upon
Chief Balestracci’s retirement on March 27, 2026, and contingent upon an agreeable contract
between the Town of Waterford and Lieutenant David Ferland. Motion passed unanimously.

BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSION STATEMENT ON ACTION TAKEN
The Town of Waterford Board of Police Commissioners is pleased to announce the appointment
of Lieutenant David Ferland as the next Chief of Police for the Waterford Police Department,
effective Friday, March 27, 2026, contingent upon an agreeable contract between the Town of
Waterford and Lt. David Ferland.
Lieutenant Ferland will assume leadership of the Department upon the retirement of Chief Marc
Balestracci, who concludes his distinguished service to the Town on that date. Chief
Balestracci’s tenure has been marked by steadfast dedication, professionalism, and a deep
commitment to public safety. The Board extends its sincere gratitude for his years of exemplary
service to the community.
In accordance with the Town’s approved policy governing the selection of a Chief of Police, the
Board of Police Commissioners conducted a comprehensive and structured review process. This
process included a thorough evaluation of qualifications, leadership experience, professional
achievements, and demonstrated commitment to community policing. Lieutenant Ferland not
only met all established requirements for the position but exceeded them, distinguishing himself
through his proven leadership, depth of experience, and clear vision for the continued
advancement of the Department.
The Board of Police Commissioners looks forward to working with Chief-Appointee Ferland as
he leads the Department into its next chapter and remains committed to supporting the men and
women of the Waterford Police Department in their service to the residents of Waterford.
MOTION: Made by Commissioner Brule and seconded by Commissioner Dimmock to adjourn
the meeting at 6:05 p.m. Motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted by:
Dione &, Daooll
Diane E. Driscoll
Recording Secretary