PROSPER, TX – January 20, 2026 – After nearly five decades of service in law enforcement, including 12 years as Chief of the Prosper Police Department, Police Chief Doug Kowalski has announced his retirement.
Kowalski concludes a nearly 49 year career marked by servant leadership, organizational excellence and a strong commitment to community trust. He joined the Town of Prosper on January 6, 2014, as Interim Chief and was later appointed Chief of Police. During his tenure, he guided the department through a period of rapid growth and modernization.
“It has been an honor to serve a community that shows such unwavering support for its public safety personnel,” Kowalski said. “I am grateful to the residents, Town Council, Town leadership and especially the men and women of the Prosper Police Department for being such strong partners in public safety. The Police Department will carry on and make Prosper proud.”
When Kowalski arrived in Prosper, the Police Department included 14 officers and six dispatchers. Under his leadership, the department grew into a full service, accredited agency with nearly 100 public servants. He established the Criminal Investigations Division, implemented a competitive step pay plan to attract and retain talent, and created a formal supervisory rank structure to strengthen leadership development.
A defining feature of Kowalski’s tenure was the emphasis on servant leadership and customer service, with every employee serving as an ambassador of the department in the community. Training initiatives focused on Kowalski’s Five Cs of Leadership: Character, Competence, Compassion, Courage and Commitment.
The department earned the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA) Best Practices Accreditation three times during his tenure, reflecting an ongoing commitment to professional standards. Kowalski also championed innovation and technology, including the use of automated license plate readers and the Drone as First Responder (DFR) program to enhance crime prevention and investigative efforts.
One of his most lasting contributions was the planning and construction of the Prosper Police Headquarters on Safety Way. The facility brings first responders and critical operations together in a modern, efficient environment designed to support both employees and residents. He also played a key role in the passage and renewal of the Special Purpose Districts for Police and Fire, helping secure long-term funding for Prosper’s growing public safety needs.
Town Manager Mario Canizares praised Kowalski’s leadership and legacy. “Chief Kowalski’s servant leadership shaped the professionalism and character of the Prosper Police Department,” Canizares said. “His commitment to exceptional service and community trust helped build a strong foundation that will support Prosper for years to come. We are deeply grateful for his service and wish him the very best in retirement.”
“Chief Kowalski has been a steady, trusted leader during a period of tremendous growth in Prosper,” Mayor David Bristol said. “His commitment to professionalism, accountability and community trust has helped shape a Police Department our residents can be proud of. On behalf of the Town Council and the entire community, we thank him for his service and wish him well in retirement.”
Kowalski began his law enforcement career in 1975 with the New York City Police Department before continuing his service in Texas with the Dallas Police Department, where he rose to the rank of Deputy Chief. He later served as Police Chief for the City of McKinney before joining the Town of Prosper.
Reflecting on his career, Kowalski emphasized the values he hopes will continue to guide the department.
“Do what is right, do the best you can and treat other people the way you would like to be treated,” Kowalski said. “There are no great men, only great challenges that ordinary people are called upon to meet.”
Chief Kowalski’s final day of service with the Town of Prosper will be February 13, 2026. Information regarding interim leadership and the transition plan will be announced soon.