Crime & Safety

Headed Out the Door, Jeff Long Reminisces About Time With Edina Police Department

Edina Police Chief Jeff Long's last day was Jan. 16.

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When outgoing Edina police chief Jeff Long started at the department 27 years ago, his first office was in a coat closet.

He marked his final day Jan. 16 looking out over the Edina Country Club, preparing for his new job as Lakeville's police chief.

"I wanted to let anyone reading this know how honored I have been to be the Chief of Police in Edina," he wrote on Jan. 13. "I gave this job my all and although you may not have agreed with each decision, I always did my best."

In a blog post, city manager Scott Neal praised Long's "broad continuum of experiences" and his talent for digital communication. He's served as a community service officer, patrol officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, deputy chief and—since 2012—police chief.

"He has the ability to share perspective with almost anyone in the department because, at one time or another, he’s done everything in the department," Neal wrote. "One aspect of being Chief that Jeff has excelled at is his ability to communicate with his coworkers and with the outside world."

Deputy Police Chief Dave Nelson, who will serve as interim chief while the city determines whether to conduct an internal or external search for the department’s new leader.

In a parting message to Edina, Long singled out five residents for praise:

  • Jon Barnett, of EdinAlarm who volunteers an incredible amount of his time to the community. He has been a long time member of the Edina Crime Fund and was my sponsor for the Edina Noon Rotary, the greatest Rotary Club in the Universe.

  • Doug Johnson, Former Director of Community Ed at Edina Schools. Doug is one of the most genuine people you will ever meet. He always put community and kids first. He has been a voice of reason at the times I have needed it most over the years.  His unique sense of humor can really lighten the mood.

  • Bob Solheim, Director at Little Hospice in Edina. He has been extremely supportive of the PD over the years and has generously donated to our Department several times.

  • Ed Noonan, Noonan Construction. For several years the Noonan family would drop off treats at the PD on holidays. In addition, he generously donated the department Segway as a way to become more mobile during art fairs, parades and other large community events.

  • Denny Maetzold, former Edina Mayor. Denny generously gives endless hours to the Edina Crime Fund and as a volunteer who assists with our complicated financial investigations. 

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