Michelle Bennett, the Edmonds Police Chief, will retire on February 15, 2025, after a distinguished 35-year career in law enforcement, marked by her commitment to community engagement and departmental modernization. Her retirement announcement comes at a precarious time for the Edmonds Police Department, which is grappling with a $13 million budget deficit that threatens its operational stability. Throughout her tenure, Bennett has championed initiatives to enhance community policing and diversify the force, achieving notable progress with nearly 30% of officers being women. The department has already made $3. 6 million in budget cuts, raising concerns about the future of local law enforcement services.

As discussions unfold about potential contracts with neighboring sheriff's offices, the community's priorities remain a focal point for Bennett and city officials. She has expressed a desire to focus on family and teaching post-retirement while emphasizing the importance of maintaining high-quality policing services. The city will begin the search for her successor shortly after her departure, underscoring the critical nature of this leadership transition. As Bennett leaves her position, both the department and the city face pivotal decisions on how to ensure public safety amidst financial constraints.