To The Editor: I write this personally so that my words will not be taken out of context, twisted, or improperly reported by anyone following the issue involving my retirement as Chief of Police for the City of Sea Isle City. A decision to retire is a very personal matter, and one which I have involved my family and my wife of 20 years. The matter involving the allegations contained in the charges brought by the city against me have been amicably resolved and will be dismissed as part of a separation agreement entered into by the city and myself. I will be retiring after 25 years of service with the benefits that my family and I are entitled to. First and foremost, I would like to thank my wife Phyllis, whom I love very much and who suffered immensely from this very personal family issue. She is a strong, caring person who has stood by me and whose actions were not of hate, but of heart. Also, I thank my children, who have shown me unconditional love and understanding. I would like to thank my mother, my brothers and my true close personal friends for their support and care for my family and me during this time. Additionally, I would like thank my God, Pastor Kevin Bernat, and the members of New Life Assembly Church for their spiritual guidance and prayers. Finally I would like to thank the many residents and children of Sea Isle City who I have had the honor of meeting and serving over the last 25 years of my life. WILLIAM J. KENNEDY Chief of Police (Ret.) Sea Isle City