WYOMING, Mich. -- Kip Snyder has become the new chief of the Wyoming Department of Public Safety.

He was sworn in Monday after longtime chief Kim Koster retired at the end of this past year.

Snyder will lead a team of nearly 167 full-time people in the city's police and fire departments. The Wyoming Police say he will be the chief until he retires next year. City Manager John Shay paid tribute to him in a news release.

Here are some details from the release:

Snyder has dedicated his career to law enforcement and public safety, serving the City of Wyoming in a wide range of roles. He began his career as a patrol officer, where he developed a strong foundation in community-focused policing. He later served as a K9 handler and vice detective, gaining specialized experience in enforcement, investigations, and proactive policing.

“Deputy Chief Snyder has been an exceptional and instrumental member of our public safety team.” said Wyoming City Manager John Shay. “He has gone above and beyond in his various positions, and I believe is a role model and trusted figure for our residents.

“We look forward to seeing him lead our public safety team in its ongoing mission to protect and to serve our community.”

Snyder served as sergeant, overseeing both patrol and support services, followed by lieutenant responsible for patrol and administrative services. He later promoted to captain of police services, where he provided strategic oversight of departmental operations, and most recently served as deputy director, playing a critical role in executive leadership, organizational development, and long-term planning for both the police and fire departments.

Throughout his career, Snyder has led or helped establish several impactful initiatives designed to strengthen both employee wellness and operational effectiveness. These efforts include the creation of the peer support team, cadet program, and use of force cadre, as well as the development of the department’s K9 program and Community Services Unit (CSU). In addition, Snyder played a key role in developing succession planning within the Wyoming Fire Department, ensuring continuity of leadership and operational readiness. Snyder’s service and dedication have been recognized through multiple honors, including a Life Saving Award, the Chief’s Award of Professional Excellence, and numerous commendations throughout his career.

Snyder has completed extensive executive-level training, including FBI-LEEDA, the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, the Grand Rapids Leadership Institute, and the FBI National Academy class 236. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Ferris State University and a master’s degree in criminal justice administration, also from Ferris State University. Snyder resides in Hudsonville with his wife Jill. He also has four adult children – daughters Elizabeth and Roda and sons Christian and Joshua and daughter-in-law Katelyn.

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West Michigan's Morning News