Stone Harbor Appoints New Police Chief, Contract Negotiations Resume

STONE HARBOR – The Borough Council has addressed two key issues raised by the public: appointing a new police chief and resolving an ongoing contract dispute with the Fraternal Order of Police. Capt. Christopher Palmer, a longtime member of the Stone Harbor Police Department, has been sworn in as the new chief, filling the position left vacant by the retirement of Chief Thomas Schutta.

STONE HARBOR – The Borough Council has addressed two key issues raised by the public: appointing a new police chief and resolving an ongoing contract dispute with the Fraternal Order of Police. Capt. Christopher Palmer, a longtime member of the Stone Harbor Police Department, has been sworn in as the new chief, filling the position left vacant by the retirement of Chief Thomas Schutta. Palmer has served with the department for over two decades and was promoted to captain in 2017. As the summer season approaches, he is preparing for the influx of seasonal visitors while also advocating for a resolution to the department's contract negotiations. Borough police officers have been working without a contract since January 2024. The borough has directed its labor counsel to reengage in negotiations, with a meeting scheduled for April 2. Officials are working to finalize an agreement while ensuring the department is fully prepared for the summer months, when the town’s population significantly increases.