Gormley appointed new public safety director

By Kevin Elliott

Recently appointed Bloomfield Hills Public Safety Director Jeff Gormley and two department captains were recognized Tuesday, March 14, by city leaders and staff during the Bloomfield Hills City Commission meeting.

Gormley, who joined the department in 1998, and most recently served as captain and detective lieutenant, replaces former public safety director Noel Clason, who retired from the director position at the end of 2022. Public safety staff, relatives and family filled the city commission room at the meeting as Bloomfield Hills City Manager David Hendrickson introduced Gormley.

“Jeff certainly has a lot of support here, and a lot of support in the community,” he said.

City commissioners in September approved working with the Michigan Municipal League to conduct an executive search for the position, which oversees police and fire operations in the city. Hendrickson said there were several qualified candidates, but the commission chose Gormley as the best suited for the job.

“I think Jeff brings a thoughtful and measured approach to what he does, and he is certainly appreciated by all the staff,” Hendrickson said. “While going through the process, we got a lot of letters of support from residents, but we didn’t let the commission know that at the time because we have to look at each candidate. I believe Jeff was the best candidate, and the commission believes Jeff is the best candidate.”

Also recognized at the meeting for promotions were Bloomfield Hills Captain Dustin Lockard and Captain Tom VanSimaeys, who were promoted from lieutenant positions. Both started as dispatchers with the department and worked their way up through the ranks.

“I’m very humbled and thankful to have the opportunity to lead the department through the challenges we face today in our society, and take care of this wonderful city,” Gormley said. “I have great officers and command staff, and they are the backbone of the department. I’m happy to have them behind me.”