The City of Kewanee has selected Deputy Chief Stephen Kijanowski to replace retiring Chief, Chief Nicholas Welgat. Chief Welgat began his employment with the City of Kewanee 17 years ago and assumed the position as Chief of Police on November 3, 2020. Chief Welgat’s official retirement date is November 13, 2023. Chief Nick Welgat and Deputy Chief Stephen Kijanowski attended the police academy together and began their employment with the City of Kewanee on the same day.
“When he was promoted into the position three years ago, we expected Chief Welgat to make a big contribution over the course of the next decade or so,” Bradley said, “but there were other plans at work. There are a lot of mixed emotions with Nick’s retirement.” The City of Kewanee moved forward with plans to select a replacement Chief of Police after the announcement that Chief Welgat was diagnosed with Lung Cancer, while hoping there might be a change in his health.
Incoming Chief Kijanowski and his wife Melissa have three children and are long-time residents of the community. “As sad as we are to see Chief Welgat leave,” Bradley said, “it’s important to note that his replacement has earned the right to serve in the position. He’s put in the work, built relationships and programs, and has done what he needed to do to become an effective leader in the field of law enforcement.”
Deputy Chief Kijanowski said “During my tenure as Deputy Chief under Chief Welgat’s leadership, I actively collaborated in shaping future initiatives for the department. I was involved in the decision-making process and I am committed to advancing the path we’ve set forth. I’m looking forward to serving with dedication and passion.”
Chief Nicholas Welgat posted about his retirement and an update in his battle against Cancer today. Chief Welgat said “I made the decision after speaking with my family, doctors, and city officials and felt it was in my best interest to medically retire and focus on my health and family” regarding his retirement. “It will be bitter sweet as I had many long-term plans I will not get to see to fruition, but I know the department will be left in good hands”. “I can’t wait to see where Stephen can take this department!” Chief Welgat thanked everyone for their thoughts and prayers and asks everyone to keep sending them his way.
Deputy Chief Kijanowski said he intends to continue with the current plan for the department, especially community outreach. Deputy Chief Stephen Kijanowski said it’s an honor to be selected to replace Chief Welgat. “It’s a great responsibility, and I’m excited about the journey ahead.” Deputy Chief Kijanowski said Chief Welgat’s initiatives “have profoundly enriched our community bonds and departmental strategies “Having worked alongside Nicholas throughout my career, I can attest to the indelible mark he’s left on our department.” He said that Chief Welgat’s retirement “marks a pivotal transition for us”, he believes the Kewanee Police Department has the expertise and dedication to continue with the current path.
The November 13th City Council meeting will feature Chief Welgat’s retirement and the swearing-in of Stephen Kijanowski as Chief of Police. “Nick will be a part of that. He’s excited to see a friend he’s worked with for so long become the Chief, just like Steve is proud of Nick and is excited to see his friend retire so that he can spend time with his family. I’m proud of both of them, and excited for each of them, as well,” Bradley said.
Chief Nicholas Welgat said he is mainly suffering from extreme fatigue. He said the most recent brain MRI showed there is a significant reduction in the number of lesions on his brain and that his doctors are extremely happy with the positive change so quickly. He will get a CT scan of his neck on November 15th and a PET Scan on November 16th. Chief Welgat said “We are optimistic to see more improvement after these upcoming tests but we understand we may not see any improvements this early”.
