The Hightstown Borough Council voted 5-1 Monday to approve a retirement agreement for Police Chief James Eufemia. Democrat Councilwoman and former Council President Isabel McGinty dissenting.

 Chief Eufemia, 55, has worked in the borough police force for 30 years and has been chief for the past 10.

“I’ve always considered myself fortunate to serve this community for the past 30 years,” Chief Eufemia told Patch. “I’m appreciative of that.”

“Thirty years… it’s most of my adult life. I’m proud to have served it as a police officer.”

The chief faced strong criticism after a state report released in January listed Hightstown as one of the most gang-ridden communities statewide, and in Mercer County with the most gang members and second to Trenton in the number of gangs. Borough police provided the local numbers for the report, and residents and councilmembers said they were unsatisfied with the department's response to it.

Democrat Mayor Steve Kirson said Monday that Chief Eufemia was the one who initiated the retirement process, with discussions beginning several months ago.

For more on this story, including details of the retirement agreement, click “Keep me posted!” below or check Patch Tuesday.