Chesterton Town Manager Bernie Doyle, retiring on Dec. 31 after  nearly 12 years of honorable service, has been honored by the Indiana House.

At the Town Council’s final meeting of 2020, President Sharon Darnell, D-4th, read a proclamation introduced in the House by State Rep. Chuck Moseley, D-Portage.

The proclamation in full:

“Whereas, Bernie Doyle has faithfully served the people of the Town of Chesterton. His service began in 2009 when he became Town Manager.

“Whereas, Bernie Doyle has collaborated with the Town Council, department heads, and other employees to substantially improve Chesterton. Bernie was instrumental in creating economic  development, attracting Urschel Laboratories Inc., Addison Pointe Health and Rehabilitation, StoryPoint Senior Living, the Residences at Coffee Creek, and the Chesterton Fiber Optic Network, among others.

“Whereas, Bernie Doyle has worked to create continuity for operational stability and safety in Chesterton. Bernie oversaw the digitization of sensitive and historic town records, ensuring their preservation for posterity. He worked with the heads of each department and implemented the recommendations of a safety development team.

“Whereas, Bernie Doyle has had an outstanding career of 11 years as Town Manager of Chesterton.

“Therefore, Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the 122nd General Assembly of the State of Indiana: Section 1. That the Indiana House of Representatives honors Bernie Doyle for his remarkable service to the Town of Chesterton as Town Manager.”

Doyle, for his part, didn’t see that one coming. “I’m overwhelmed,” he told the council. “I did not expect that. I did not expect it.”

“It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve as your Town Manager these past nearly 12 years,” Doyle added. “I want to thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility. And I have full confidence in my  successor, Dave Cincoski.”

Member Dane Lafata, D-3rd, took a moment at the end of the meeting to express his gratitude to Doyle for his service. “I just want to thank Bernie for everything he’s done for the town and for the help he’s given me as a member of the council and as a resident,” he said.

“I also want to thank Bernie for his contributions to  the town,” added Member Jennifer Fisher, I-5th. “I just want to wish him all the best in retirement.”

“It’s been a pleasure working with you these last few years,” said Member Lloyd Kittredge, R-2nd. “I wish absolutely the best for you.”

“I want to wish you well too,” Darnell said. “Thank you for your continuing support.”