McDONALD — There’s a new police chief in town.

Ryan Ronghi was officially sworn in as chief Wednesday by Mayor Ray Lewis after village council approved the appointment.

Ronghi, who has been with the police department 16 years starting part-time in 2008, most recently served as acting chief in June following the retirement of Bill Woodley.

Ronghi was promoted to full-time in 2012 before becoming a lieutenant in 2018.

Ronghi’s father, Lou, served as village police chief previously, retiring in 2017. He was with the department for 20 years.

He said he looks forward to helping the department grow and hiring additional experienced staff.

Ronghi will be paid $33 per hour as chief.

With Ronghi moving to the chief position, Brandon Caraway will become a lieutenant and David Smith a sergeant.

Lewis said when Woodley retired last spring Ronghi and Caraway split the chief’s duties.

“They both had three months experience taking on additional duties and excelled with flying colors. I saw how the department was run under their leadership and responded to their leadership,” Lewis said.

He said the three officers moved up the ranks.

“I look for individuals in the police department who care. They are all great representation of the village and examples of community policing,” Lewis said.

He said the police department under the guidance of Ronghi and Caraway held a successful summer safety day for children.