Two Rockland police officers have received awards in 2026 from statewide organizations, both of which The City of Rockland recognized this month through resolves and commendations. Soon, however, the City will have its own annual award to distribute.

The Rockland Person of the Year Award will formally recognize and celebrate individuals whose contributions to the community exemplify dedication to community, inspire civic pride, and reflect the values and spirit of the City of Rockland. In essence, councilors felt that the award’s mission aligns with what “The Lobster Lady” grew to represent in the minds of her fans.

Councilors had brought the Person of the Year idea to Council Chambers months ago. However, the idea quickly grew of dedicating the annual award to Oliver, who passed away January 21, 2026, at the age of 105. To do so meant proposing the idea to Oliver’s children, give them time to mull the idea, and eventually to receive their permission.

Now known as the “Ginny Oliver Person of the Year Award,” the City order was unanimously voted into City documents during the July 13, 2026 City Council meeting, but not before recognizing two officers who are currently being recognized beyond Rockland’s borders.

Deputy Police Chief Alex Gaylor received the Maine Chiefs of Police Association 2026 Community Relations Award for his exemplary service, leadership, mentorship and unwavering commitment to the City of Rockland and its citizens.

Sgt. Celjeta Bixhaku received the American Legion’s 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award and the 2026 Traffic Safety Champion Award, presented by AAA, for her outstanding service, leadership and dedication to the City of Rockland and its citizens.

In summary, City Manager Tom Luttrell said: "I will just take this time to congratulate both Deputy Chief Gaylor and Sargent Jeta. I think this is a prime example of the fine officers that we have in this city, and I’m proud to have you be a part of our team, and thank you for all you do for the city. Thank you very much."

Resolve commendation Deputy Police Chief Alex Gaylor

Whereas Deputy Chief Alex Gaylor of the Rockland Police Department has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the residents of the city of Rockland throughout his distinguished service since joining the department in 2013, and;

Whereas Deputy Chief Gaylor has risen through the ranks as an officer, detective, detective sergeant and now deputy chief, earning the respect of his fellow officers, supervisors and the community, through his intelligence, integrity, and tireless work ethic. and;

Whereas Deputy Chief Gaylor has played a vital role in fostering a positive culture within the Rockland Police Department, and continuously strives to bring out the best of those around him, and;

Whereas Deputy Chief Gaylor’s vision and leadership led to the establishment of the Rockland Police Dept. Youth Mentorship Program, creating meaningful connections between law enforcement and the city’s youth, while helping to reduce juvenile crime and strengthen trust within the community. And;

Whereas his dedication to mentoring at-risk youth, often through personal time and effort, has positively impacted countless young people and contributed to measurable declines in juvenile crime and youth involvement in the criminal justice system. And;

Whereas, Deputy Chief Gaylor was recognized by the Maine Chiefs of Police Association with the 2026 community relations award for receiving the recognition and respect of both the community and his fellow officers through his outstanding service.

Now therefore be it resolved that the Rockland City Council hereby extends its sincere appreciation and commendation to Deputy Police Chief Alex Gaylor for his exemplary service, leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the City of Rockland and its residents.

Be it further resolved, that the City of Rockland congratulates Deputy Police Chief Gaylor on this well-deserved statewide recognition, and thanks him for setting the standard of professionalism, compassion, and community policing for others to follow.

Resolve commending Sgt. "Jeta" Celjeta Bixhaku for receiving the American Legion 2026 law enforcement officer of the year award and the 2026 traffic safety champion award presented by AAA. For outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to the City of Rockland and its citizens.

Whereas Sgt. Celjeta Bixhaku of the Rockland Police Department has demonstrated extraordinary dedication, professionalism and service to the Rockland community and the state of Maine, and;

Whereas Sgt. Bixhaku has distinguished herself throughout her unmatched ethic, positive attitude, and steadfast commitment to public safety and community service, and;

Whereas Sgt. Bixhaku has shown exceptional dedication in enforcing Maine’s Operating under the Influence laws, conducting numerous investigations and serving as a Drug Recognition Expert, whose work has exceeded that of many agencies throughout the region, and;

Whereas Sgt. Bixhaku continuously seeks opportunities for professional advancement and serves as a mentor and leader within the department as a certified field training officer, drug recognition expert, bolawrap instructor, and;

Whereas Sgt. Bixhaku, whose professionalism, leadership, and positive approach to law enforcement have increased moral within the Rockland Police Department while setting an example for fellow officers and the broader law enforcement community, and;

Whereas Sgt. Bixhaku was selected to receive the 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award from the American Legion in recognition of her steadfast dedication to the safety and security of the people of her community, and the state, and;

Whereas Sgt. Bixhaku was also selected to receive the 2026 Traffic Safety Champion award, presented by AAA, at the Maine Impaired Driving summit for her proactive efforts in combating impaired driving and protecting local motorists.

Now, therefore, let it be resolved that the Rockland City Council hereby extends its deepest appreciation and commendation to Sgt. Celjeta Bixhaku for her outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to the City of Rockland and its residents.

Be it further resolved that the City of Rockland congratulates Sgt. Celjeta Bixhaku on these distinguished statewide honors and thanks her for her continued commitment to excellence in law enforcement and service to our community.

Reach Sarah Thompson at news@penbaypilot.com