Four members of the Farmington Public Safety Department were recognized at a promotional ceremony during the Aug. 17 City Council Meeting. Deputy Director Shane Wash, Commander Michael Weir, Sergeant William Wood and Sergeant Lisa Kobernick collectively bring more than 73 years of institutional knowledge to the department.

The four leaders have served in a wide range of roles throughout their careers, including patrol, investigations, fire services, school resource, training and specialized operations.

“Their combined experience and commitment to professional development have prepared them to take on new leadership responsibilities within the department,” said Public Safety Director Bob Houhanisin.

The ceremony included a Supervisory Oath of Office administered by City Clerk Meaghan Bachman, along with a badge-pinning tradition where a member of the officer’s family pinned the new badges onto their uniforms.

Sergeant Lisa Kobernick
Lisa Kobernick joined the Farmington Public Safety Department in 2015 as a Public Safety Officer. Prior to joining the department, she worked as a supervisor for Palace Sports and Entertainment, where she coordinated security for high-profile events.

Kobernick holds an associate degree from Oakland Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Oakland University. During her career with Farmington Public Safety, she has served as a Field Training Officer and spent the past four years assigned to the Special Operations Division as the department’s School Resource Officer. Her work in the schools earned the respect of students, staff and the school community.

Sergeant William Wood
Will Wood joined the Farmington Public Safety Department in 2006. Prior to that, he served as a lieutenant with the Troy Fire Department and as a sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserve.

During his Farmington career, Wood initially served on patrol before transitioning to the Special Operations Division, where he developed his skills as a detective and later became the department’s Fire Marshal.

Wood has served in numerous specialized and leadership roles, including Field Training Officer, firearms instructor, fire investigator with the South Oakland Fire Investigation Team and fire instructor. He is a member of the Oakland County Mobile Field Force and an original member of the Farmington Public Safety Department’s Honor Guard. Wood plays an important role on the department’s Peer Support Team, providing support to fellow public safety professionals, helping promote the importance of mental health and wellness within the department. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Columbia Southern University

Commander Michael Weir
Mike Weir joined the Farmington Public Safety Department in 2021. In just five years, he has advanced through the ranks, demonstrating strong leadership, commitment to professional development and extensive experience in emergency services.

Before joining Farmington, Weir served as Deputy Chief of the South Lyon Fire Department and worked as a Communications Supervisor for Huron Valley Ambulance. His previous experience in the fire service and emergency medical services provide a strong foundation for his leadership role with Farmington Public Safety.

Since joining the department, Weir has continued to advance his education, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Columbia Southern University. He has also served as a Field Training Officer and fire instructor for the department.

Deputy Director Shane Wash
Shane Wash was promoted to Deputy Director, bringing nearly three decades of law enforcement experience and more than 20 years with the City of Farmington Public Safety Department to the position.

Wash began his law enforcement career in 1996 and joined the Farmington Public Safety Department in December 2005. Throughout his career, he has served at nearly every level of the agency, including Patrol Officer, Detective, Sergeant and Commander.

Wash has been a dedicated department trainer and previously served as a Field Training Officer, helping mentor and prepare the next generation of public safety professionals.

In addition to his extensive law enforcement experience, Wash is a professor at Schoolcraft College, where he teaches Criminal Justice, Fire Technology and Homeland Security. He also serves as the lead Emergency Vehicle Operations instructor for the Wayne County Regional Police Academy.

Wash holds a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and a master’s degree from Webster University. He recently completed Police School of Staff and Command at Northwestern University, further strengthening his executive leadership skills.

“These promotions represent more than a change in title,” said Farmington City Manager David Murphy. They represent the trust we place in these individuals to lead, mentor and serve our community. We look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in their new roles.”