HB 1193

Committee — OUGHT TO PASS

Rep. Bill Boyd

The committee unanimously supported naming the new public safety answering point (PSAP) in Laconia as the Bruce Cheney 911 Service Center. Bruce Cheney began his public service as a member of the United States Marine Corps, where he developed a strong foundation in leadership and discipline. His military experience instilled in him a deep commitment to duty and service, values that would guide his subsequent career. Returning to civilian life, Cheney joined the Laconia Police Department, where he served with distinction for 25 years. He rose through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as Police Chief, a position he held for 13 years from September 1977 through December 1990. During his tenure, he worked closely with state officials to ensure public safety during events such as Laconia Motorcycle Week. After retiring from local law enforcement, Cheney was appointed as the Director of the New Hampshire Division of Emergency Services and Communications. In this role, he was instrumental in developing and overseeing the state’s 911 emergency communications system, enhancing public safety 911 infrastructure across New Hampshire, and contributing to New Hampshire’s preparedness for next-generation 911 services. Cheney served as Director from 1993 through 2016. In 2016, Cheney retired from state service and returned to Laconia, where he became actively involved in local governance. He was elected to the Laconia City Council, representing Ward 1 in 2017. During his time on the council, he has served as a liaison to the Planning Board and Police Commission, contributing his expertise to city planning and public safety initiatives. Cheney’s priorities on the council have included promoting affordable housing, developing the Laconia State School property, and enhancing police and fire/EMS services. He has emphasized the importance of creating housing options for working-class families and has been actively involved in discussions on addressing homelessness in the city. Cheney’s contributions to public safety have been widely recognized: Intrado’s 50 Influential People in 911. Cheney was named among the 50 most influential figures in the emergency communications field by Intrado, highlighting his impact on public safety communications, including his dedication to the persistent pursuit of the improvement of 911 and development of 911 technological systems and solutions; Enhanced 911 Grant Program under his leadership, New Hampshire received a $642,948.39 grant in 2009 to upgrade the state’s 911 infrastructure, including the implementation of Phase II compliant map interfaces and hardware upgrades for call-taker positions; and, Outstanding Leadership and Appreciation Award. Bruce was recognized for his unwavering dedication, commitment and lifetime of work in the City of Laconia and the State of New Hampshire while serving as the city’s Chief of Police and the State of New Hampshire’s Director of Emergency Services and Communications in 2025. His personal and professional lives reflect a deep commitment to community, lifelong public and civic service, and the well-being of his fellow citizens. Bruce Cheney’s extensive experience in law enforcement, emergency services, and local government has made him a respected figure in Laconia and the state. His ongoing contributions continue to shape the city’s development and ensure the safety and prosperity of its residents. Vote 13-0. 27 5 JANUARY 2026