Taunton Police Chief Edward Walsh will have to retire when he turns 65 after the city council rejected a proposal on Tuesday that would have allowed him to serve until he turns 70 years old.

Massachusetts law requires police officers to retire by the last day of the month in which they turn 65 years old. Walsh will be turning 65 in October.

Taunton Mayor Shaunna O’Connell, Walsh, other members of the police department and city government gave a detailed presentation at the city council meeting in favor of delaying Walsh’s retirement.

The presentation noted that the department needs “experienced leadership during a critical period of transition,” especially with the upcoming move to a new public safety facility.

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