Growing up in Shaler, Matthew Holland was intrigued by the police officers who came to his school and would stop and talk to kids while they were outside playing.

That intrigue lead to Holland becoming the first in his family to pursue a career in law enforcement. After 11 years as a patrol officer and 14 years as a lieutenant in West View, he’s achieved a career goal by becoming chief of the department.

West View Council voted 5-0 on Feb. 11 to name Holland, 56, of Franklin Park as the borough’s new police chief, effective that day. Councilmen William Aguglia and Troy Holtgraver were absent.

“I’ve loved working for West View Borough. It’s been my dream job working for West View,” Holland said. “We have a great group of officers here and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Holland has been in charge of the department since September, when the former chief, Bruce Fromlak, retired after 40 years with the department.

As lieutenant, Holland was second in charge of the department under Fromlak.

“He’s been a great mentor for me,” Holland said.

A West View native now residing in Pine, Fromlak became chief in March 2011, replacing Charles Holtgraver. He continues to serve as borough manager, a job he’s had since November 2011 when he replaced Ken Wolf.

“He’s a great officer,” Fromlak said. “He’s very well known in the community. He’ll be a good fit. He’ll take the charge seriously, being promoted to chief. I think he understands the responsibility that comes with it. It’s more than a title.”

A 1987 Shaler Area graduate, Holland worked part time for Sewickley, Edgeworth and Aleppo before getting his first full time job at West View.

Married to Patty Holland, he has five children, including two stepchildren, and 13 grandchildren.

Holland said he’ll look to lead his officers and make them the best they can be.

“I’m a pretty average guy,” Holland said, describing himself as a community-oriented officer. “I’ll always be a community officer. I love being part of West View.”

The borough is looking to hire two part-time officers. The starting pay is $32.07 per hour. Groomed beards and tattoos are permitted.

Those interested in applying can contact Holland at mholland@wvboro.com or call 412-931-2800, ext. 113.

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