Fond Farewell for Maple Grove Police Chief

Without discussion, a motion was passed at the Sept. 6 Maple Grove City Council meeting to accept Maple Grove Police Chief Ramona Dohman’s letter of resignation and begin the interview process for a permanent replacement.

Last winter, Maple Grove’s city council members approved Dohman’s request to take six months of unpaid leave. At their Feb. 22 meeting, Dohman noted that the leave of absence was “for exploration of a new career opportunity.” Since then, the department has been functioning without a permanent chief. ’s deputy chief, David Jess, has been functioning as the acting police chief. 

“After careful thought and consideration to this decision, it is with mixed emotions that I tender this resignation,” Dohman said in a resignation letter addressed to Mayor Mark Steffenson and City Administrator Al Madsen. “I am so very proud of the Maple Grove Police Department and the employees who work within it. I will forever cherish my time in Maple Grove.”

City Administrator Madsen noted in supporting city council documents that Dohman was an outstanding law enforcement official and had a very positive reputation within the community. “We are thankful for the many years of service Chief Dohman has provided,” Madsen said. “We wish her well.”

Dohman began her employment with the city of Maple Grove in 1984 as an investigator and patrol officer. In 2001, she was promoted to chief, but her success didn’t end there. This year, Dohman made the history books when, in January, she became Minnesota’s first female commissioner of public safety.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is charged with implementing plans to protect Minnesota’s citizens and communities. With her 30 years of law enforcement experience, Dohman’s appointment to commissioner of the department came as no surprise.

“Her selection by Governor Dayton to be the Minnesota Commissioner of Public Safety is truly a tribute to Chief Dohman’s skills and ability to work with people,” Madsen said in city council documents. “She has achieved a stellar reputation.”

With her resignation effective Aug. 31, 2011, Maple Grove City Council members agreed to begin interviewing chief of police candidates within the next two weeks. Ultimately, the city council will make the final police chief appointment.