Seaside’s longest-running employee took a bow last night, as City Council commended him for 37 years of service to the police department and the city of Seaside.

“We have a special opportunity to recognize Bruce Holt, who’s retiring after 37 years of service city of Seaside,” announced Mayor Jay Barber. “You have shown a great deal of respect to all with whom you have come in contact with, and will be greatly missed.”

With family in the audience and many more watching remotely, Holt was recognized for his commitment to the community and his professional leadership.

A video presentation offered glimpses of Holt throughout his career — usually, but not always sporting his trademark mustache.

Holt served as a reserve officer in 1982 and was hired by the Seaside Police Department in November 1983. He was promoted to senior officer in February 1987 and sergeant in 1989. He received a detective role in the mid-1990s and promotion to lieutenant in June 2016.

“Service with a smile,” was his motto, whether in the station, entertaining young people in the classroom, refereeing a ball game or at a community barbecue.

Barber and councilors stressed Holt’s roles as president of the Seaside Rotary, church member, and with his wife Dana, foster parents to more than 70 children over the years.

Holt played a key role in keeping alive the memory of Seaside Sgt. Jason Goodding, the officer who was killed in the line of duty in 2016.

“Every year you’ve been there to remind us of his service, and the fact that he paid the ultimate price of his leadership in the community,” Barber said. “That’s what really resonated with me. Not only your heart for Jason but for all of the guys and gals that served in the police department.”

Holt now serves with the Oregon chapter of COPS, a national nonprofit dedicated to the concerns of police survivors.

Holt thanked his parents for instilling a commitment to service in the community, which he promised to maintain after leaving the department.

“It’s going to continue to be our pleasure to be involved,” Holt said.

He thanked Chief Dave Ham for choosing him as lieutenant and the city and councilors for their support and guidance.

“Thank you on behalf of our entire family to give us the opportunity to serve this community,” Holt said. “We have enjoyed it.”

Councilors and staff followed with their own salutes to the lieutenant, including some who have known him for decades.

“I am lucky to be able to be able to call Bruce a friend and it’s been an honor to serve with him,” City Manager Mark Winstanley said. “We’re going to miss him a lot.”