IRVINE : Chamber Cites Police Chief, Allergan Inc.

The Chamber of Commerce has named Allergan Inc. as its business of the year for 1990 and Police Chief Leo Peart as citizen of the year during a ceremony this week.

Allergan, an Irvine-based specialty health care company, was selected for its community involvement and contributions to such organizations as UC Irvine and Irvine Temporary Housing, chamber spokeswoman Sherry Hadland said. The company has provided the main funding for an endowed chair at UCI for a researcher specializing in ophthalmology, has contributed to other research chairs and to other programs and facilities at UCI, she said.

Peart, chief of police since 1974, was chosen from six community members nominated for the honor. Peart was selected based on his involvement with and assistance to community groups and service clubs, and for his leadership in the police department, said Jacquie Ellis, the chamber’s executive director.

Peart, who founded the city’s Police Department, helped establish the home watch program for vacationing residents, Ellis said.