As one chapter closes for outgoing Cuba City Police Chief, Kevin Atkinson, another chapter begins for incoming police chief, Troy Loeffelholz. At last Wednesday night's regular meeting of the Cuba City Common Council, Atkinson was recognized for his service and commitment to the city of Cuba City. Atkinson retired after 20 years at the helm of the police department. His last day was Friday, Jan. 6.
Loeffelholz moves into the chief's position after moving up the ranks to commander. Loeffelholz began his career in 1989 where he worked part time for the Grant County Sheriff's Department before being hired in July 1990 in Cuba City. Loeffelholz worked as an officer until he was promoted in July 2003 to commander where he has remained in that capacity until his appointment of chief.
The Cuba City native graduated from Cuba City High School in 1986 then attended Carroll College in Waukesha before transferring to UW-Platteville in the Criminal Justice program. Loeffelholz then attended Southwest Technical College for the police recruit academy and became certified in law enforcement.
Growing up in Cuba City, Loeffelholz said he enjoys working for and with all aspects of the community. "It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Cuba City and the area," Loeffelholz said.
Former chief, Atkinson said since Loeffelholz joined the department, he has progressed through the ranks with ever-increasing responsibility and diligence. "His attentiveness and abilities to grow and meet the ever-increasing demands of law enforcement have been a testament to the person he is and the growth of this department," Atkinson said. "As I retire I am very proud to know the department is in great hands with this high quality individual I've come to respect and admire.
Loeffelholz added he plans to make some minor changes to some day-to-day operations. "Chief Atkinson has truly laid the foundation for a professional, quality, and forward-thinking department," Loeffelholz said. "I plan to continue to strive to promote a professional department and I intend to work hand-in-hand with all aspects of city functions. I have strong beliefs and philosophies of community-orientated policing, proactive law enforcement, and problem-solving practices. I wish to maintain the philosophies and practices of the highest level of law enforcement: professionally, enforcement-wise, and service-wise."
Loeffelholz added he wants the Cuba City community to know he is thankful of the opportunity to further his career and serve and protect the community. "I look forward to working with the City Council, members of the police department, city departments, and personnel along with all aspects and members of the community," Loeffelholz said. "We truly have excellent staff in all city services that provide wonderful service to the community. I wish to provide a quality service to the community and have the police department diligently preserve peace, investigate crime, prevent crime, enforce laws, and maintain the confidence and respect of the community we serve and ensure excellence in protecting our community."
Loeffelholz resides in Cuba City with his wife, Rhonda. He has three daughters, Courtney, Hannah and Hailey.