Orchard Lake's police chief and clerk set to retire

Orchard Lake Village is bidding a fond farewell to a pair of faithful stewards who have served the city for over 30 years.

City Clerk Janet Overholt-Green and Police Chief Fred Rosenau have decided to retire by the end of the fiscal year.

“Both these people have all that knowledge and history, especially Jan, who is involved in everything and has a plethora of information inside her head,” said Orchard Lake Mayor Pro-tem Jim Talpos. “To have someone fill those shoes — it will take months, if not years, for someone to get up to speed.”

As a fixture in the community, Overholt-Green is renowned for her historical knowledge and hands-on approach to running the city with efficiency.

“Jan is an icon here, so it’s a given she will be sorely missed,” said Department of Public Works (DPW) Director and Building Official Gerry McCallum. “It will be a huge adjustment because she’s so invaluable. Everyone knows her — she’s so personable and knowledgeable, but I’m happy for her. It’s well deserved and now she can go out and begin a new chapter in her life.”

Overholt-Green began her tenure with the city when she was only 18-years-old, as an assistant clerk in 1975. By 1997 she was promoted to city clerk.

Overholt-Green’s insightful and steadfast leadership has been invaluable to the City Council for over 37 years, according to city officials. She is credited with being a liaison between residents and the city by building up rapport, thanks in part to her her jovial personality and genuine concern for the community.

“Jan knows everything and everybody,” said Orchard Lake Mayor Bruce McIntyre. “I’ve known both Jan and Fred for a long time and it’s a huge loss because of their knowledge, experience and good judgment. We will miss them terribly.”

Overholt-Green’s last day on the job will be June 30, the end of the current fiscal year.

“I am leaving because it’s been close to 37 years and that is a long time to do something,” she said. “I enjoy what I do, but it’s time for me to move on and do something different.”

Rosenau’s last day on the job is scheduled to be April 30. His service dates back 32 years. He began with the Police Department as a police officer, was promoted to sergeant and then to detective sergeant before being appointed chief six years ago.

Like Green, Rosenau is leaving on good terms and lauds present and past city councils as reasons for his extended stay.

“Orchard Lake is an excellent place to work,” he said. “I’ve been blessed by councils I’ve worked with and work for. I can’t think of a better place to work.”

Both Overholt-Green and Rosenau have no immediate plans upon retirement, and both are hoping to bask in the luxury of low-key living.

“I’ve been here 32 years and want to enjoy some retirement,” Rosenau said. “I don’t know what I’m going to do yet — just enjoy time with my 13-year-old daughter.”

Last week a search committee was formed to find a replacement for Rosenau by May 1.

Rosenau’s departure comes on the heels of the department losing two sergeants to retirement this year. While the sergeant positions will not be refilled, one officer has been hired. The department contingent is expected to be six officers and a police chief.

“It’s been a shocking year for retirements, with five out of a staff of 14 retiring since the end of the year,” McIntyre said.