BOONTON — The Boonton Town Council officially welcomed its new top law-enforcement leader during the Monday, November 17 meeting, where Christopher Petonak was sworn in as Chief of Police.
Chief Petonak, who joined the Boonton Police Department in July 2007, steps into the role following the retirement of former Chief David Mayhood in December 2020. Petonak will earn an annual salary of $147,843. Earlier this year, he completed the prestigious FBI National Academy, a 10-week program recognized nationwide for its advanced coursework in leadership, investigations, and modern policing strategies.
Police Director Brian Gurney commended Chief Petonak’s professionalism and readiness to guide the department forward.
“Chris and I have worked very closely together,” Gurney said. “I recognized early on that he had the skills and dedication needed to lead our department into the future.”
In addressing the Council, Chief Petonak outlined his priorities as he steps into Boonton’s top policing position. “My focus will be on continuing to build a strong team and maintaining the trust of our community,” he said. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring the department “operates efficiently and remains responsive to the needs of our residents.”
The meeting also celebrated the addition of Officer Brooke Savercool, who took the Oath of Office and officially joined the Boonton Police Department as part of its continued staffing expansion. She was appointed as a Special Law Enforcement Officer and will be paid $25 per hour.
Officer Savercool is a 2023 graduate of Ramapo College of New Jersey, where she earned a bachelor of arts in sociology with a concentration in criminology and a minor in sports management.
Director Gurney provided an update on recent departmental accomplishments, noting that “we were able to make 11 promotions in the town” and “hired nine police officers.” He also highlighted fiscal improvements, including a significant reduction in overtime costs. “We were able to cut the overtime down from $450,000 the first year while staying within budget constraints,” he said.
With the swearing-in of Chief Petonak and Officer Savercool, Boonton continues to strengthen its police force and reinforce its commitment to public safety and community trust.
