Mandan Police Chief Dennis Rohr officially enters retirement on Friday after 21 years on the force and will be replaced, in an interim capacity, by long-time department member Dennis Bullinger.

The Mandan City Commission recognized Rohr's years of service at Tuesday's meeting, presenting the veteran officer a watch to commemorate his service.

The commission appointed Bullinger acting police chief as the city conducts a search for a new chief. Commissioner Dan Ulmer made the motion, which was unanimously approved.

"We've seen a significant improvement in the professionalism of our police department during Chief Rohr's tenure," Mayor Ken LaMont said in making the watch presentation to Rohr.

Rohr said he came from out of state to work for Mandan 21 years ago, calling the community "a great place to live and work." Rohr intends to stay in the community he now considers home.

Gordon Weixel