Veteran Police Officer Meier Named Vernon Schools Biz Director

VERNON, CT — Longtime Vernon police department member William Meier, often the face of the department at crime scenes as the public information officer, is retiring from the force to take on the role as the school system's new director of business and finance.

Vernon Superintendent of Schools Joseph Macary made the announcement Monday evening following approval by the board of education.

Meier, 42, will officially make the switch on July 7, a week into the new fiscal year.

Meier has been a police officer in Vernon for about two decades and rose to the rank of lieutenant. He also has a background in finance as a certified school business manager and a member of the Somers Board of Finance. He was instrumental in formulating the police department budget each year.

Meier also serves as a board member of the North Central Health District.

Meier was revered in media circles for his even-keeled nature at even the most nerve-wracking crime scenes. He is currently serving in the detective division and is the director of Vernon's regional coronavirus vaccination program, a nationally acclaimed distribution system that has brought the vaccine to thousands of Vernon residents and employees.

Meier holds a master's degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Public Finance from the University of Connecticut.

Meier told Patch Monday evening that he will retire from the Vernon Police Department on July 3.

"I am excited about this new position and the opportunity to transition to a career in finance and education, and I am especially happy that I am able to stay in Vernon," Meier said. "This was, of course, a difficult decision, as becoming a police officer was a childhood dream."

Meier said he will make the transition with satisfaction.

"My career at the Vernon Police Department fulfilled that dream and gave me the opportunity to work with some amazing people, both at the department and in the community," he said. "During my career, I have seen first-hand the amazing work the men and women of the Vernon police do for our community everyday. I have learned so much from so many during my time at Vernon PD and I look forward to continuing to work together with all members as I begin this new chapter."

Macary urged all those associated with the school to,"Please join me in welcoming Bill to the Vernon public schools administrative team."