By Theresa Knapp 

Hopedale Police Chief Mark Giovanella, who has served in the Hopedale Police Department for 33 years, will retire in 2027.  

In a letter dated Dec. 1 to Town Administrator Mitch Ruscitti, Chief Giovanella said, “This decision was not made lightly, but I believe the time is right to step aside and allow new leadership to continue building on the strong foundation we have established.” 

His resignation will be effective Feb. 1, 2027. 

The Select Board accepted the resignation/retirement at its meeting on Dec. 8. At that meeting, Ruscitti said Chief Giovanella has a clause in his contract that says he must provide written notification of his retirement a year in advance. Ruscitti said that ample notice “gives the town time to conduct a search process, hire his replacement, and train his replacement in time for the Chief’s retirement in approximately a year.” 

“Obviously we’re going to miss him very much,” said Select Board member Glenda Hazard. 

“It’s been an interesting tenure for him as a police chief,” said Select Board member Bernie Stock. “He’s just one very special human being and we’re very, very fortunate that we’ve had him as a police chief.” 

Select Board Chair Scott Savage thanked the Chief for his service. “I’ve really enjoyed my interactions with him. I think the amazing staff and police officers he has shows what level of commitment he has to Hopedale and to his officers.”