After 27 years in law enforcement, including five as Wayzata’s Police Chief, Marc Schultz is preparing to retire, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and compassion. The city will honor his service with an open house on Thursday, November 21, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Wayzata City Hall. Residents, colleagues, and friends are invited to celebrate his career and wish him well.
At the November 12th city council meeting, Chief Schultz reflected on his career and the emotions of retiring. “When I started this job in 1998, I couldn’t believe they paid me to do this,” Schultz said with a smile. “Now I can’t believe they’re going to pay me not to do it. I guess that makes it a little easier to go, but I’m certainly going to miss everyone.”
Schultz expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, the community, and those he served. “It’s honestly difficult to grasp the concept of retirement. This career has been an honor—working not just with this incredible team, but also on behalf of victims who couldn’t speak for themselves. Serving Wayzata and Long Lake has been the privilege of my life,” he said.
City Manager Jeff Dahl and Deputy Chief Baker both paid tribute to Schultz’s leadership and influence. Dahl highlighted Schultz’s tenure, which began in 2019, a time marked by significant challenges. “He led us through some of the most difficult times with grace, warmth, and a focus on community safety,” Dahl said. Schultz’s initiatives, such as implementing a K-9 unit, introducing a summer bike patrol, and adopting cutting-edge technology, have left a lasting mark on the department.
Deputy Chief Baker offered a personal perspective, praising Schultz’s mentorship and his dedication to both his team and his family. “You’ve made one of the most difficult careers the most enjoyable,” Baker said. “You’ve been a true leader by example, and your work has touched not just our department but the entire community.”
Schultz also took a moment to recognize his family, including his father, Donald, an 86-year-old barber still working full-time after 62 years. “I’d like to say I got my work ethic from my dad, but I didn’t come close,” Schultz joked. “He’s been a huge presence in my life, and I’m very proud of him.”
Looking ahead, Schultz shared his plans for retirement, which include spending Thursdays with his granddaughter, trips to the family cabin, and plenty of fishing. “The work must go on, and I know this team will continue to serve the community to the best of their abilities,” he said.
For a man who has dedicated his career to keeping Wayzata and Long Lake safe, the open house on November 21 will be a fitting farewell. As Baker summed up, “On behalf of the law enforcement community and myself, thank you for your hard work, dedication, sacrifice, compassion, and leadership throughout the years. You will be missed, Chief.”
