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A Fond Farewell: Honoring Chief Robl
Last night, surrounded by family and colleagues, Mayor Lord honored Police Chief Mark Robl with a mayoral proclamation — and it was a moment well deserved. Chief Robl retires on March 19, 2026, after 40 years of service to the City of Homer, 26 of those as Police Chief — making him the longest-serving police chief in Alaska. We agree with Mayor Lord's words: "Homer is undeniably fortunate to be the community he met that milestone with."
Please join us in recognizing and giving heartfelt thanks to outgoing Chief Robl, whose dedicated service shaped the department into what it is today.
Thank You, Chief Robl
It is hard to overstate what Chief Robl has meant to Homer. His commitment to this community began even before he joined the Police Department. He first served as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician with the Homer Volunteer Fire Department, and then in late 1984, joined the Homer Police Department — the beginning of a journey that would span over 40 years. During that time, he served as a patrol officer, investigator, lieutenant, and Police Chief. Like any long career, it had its ups and downs, but Chief Robl is grateful that the good has always outweighed the bad; he’s met wonderful people along the way and he carries with him many happy memories.
When reflecting on his career, Chief Robl thinks most fondly of his days on patrol — getting out into the community, talking with people of all ages, and helping them with their problems. He feels privileged to have known many of Homer's old homesteaders and original Pioneers. He recalls Homer in the 1980s particularly, when it truly felt like the end of the road, the small-town spirit was strong, and Alaska met his every expectation.
Chief Robl and his wife raised two boys here in Homer, and this community is home in every sense of the word. We are happy to share that they have no plans to leave — retirement will be spent right here. His first priority is more quality time with his family, followed by time on his boat, adventures in Alaska's wilderness, and working through his building and home maintenance projects.
Reflecting on his career, Chief Robl shared: "I have enjoyed my service to the City immensely. I thank the City, our citizens, and my family for the support over the years that helped make my job a truly wonderful experience."
Chief Robl, we thank you for your dedicated service to the department and our community. You will be greatly missed, and we wish you a wonderful retirement.
Welcome, Officer Scanlon
On March 19, Officer Michael Scanlon will be officially sworn in as the Homer Police Department's new Police Chief. The two chiefs have been working closely together to ensure a smooth transition, a reflection of the professionalism and care they both bring to this department and this community.
