On Friday, just a few weeks before his official retirement, Chief Nick Alexander spent time sharing memories with friends and coworkers.

The city hosted a retirement party at the government center on Friday.

He grew emotional, as he reflected on his career, and thanked all of the people who supported him through the years.

“It’s a lot like a relay race, which is a team effort. And I’ve had my time with the baton. Hopefully I got us to a better position during that time and then I’ll pass that baton on,” he shared.

Alexander joined the department in 1998.

His replacement is Paul Winterscheidt.