Round Lake Beach appoints old hand as new police chief

ROUND LAKE BEACH – It’s always good to see dedicated people awarded for their hard work.

That was the sentiment of many who attended the swearing in ceremony of Gary Bitler as chief of police for the Round Lake Beach Police Department, which took place at the village’s board meeting March 8.

“I think it’s an honor that someone that successful in a career gets this appointment,” said Deputy Chief Rich Chiarello. “It’s a goal I think every police officer has, and it’s great for [Bitler] to be able to complete his [goal].”

Bitler, the most decorated officer in the history of the Round Lake Beach Police Department, according to department records, has more than 30 years experience in law enforcement – all at Round Lake Beach.

From his beginnings as an officer in 1979 to his most recent appointment as interim chief of police in September 2009, Bitler has served as detective, sergeant, lieutenant and deputy chief in the department.

The last 12 years, he has been part of the command staff.

“It’s been a long road ... “ Bitler said to the Village Board and crowd of nearly 50 that came to support him Monday night. “This appointment means so much to me ... for having a few days to think about it, the prevailing emotion is how very grateful I am.”

Bitler said he was confident in his staff, which includes nearly 50 full-time officers.

“Most of these fine officers and support staff have worked with me for many, many years,” he said. “I trust them; they trust me, and it makes things much easier.”

Lt. Gilbert Rivera has worked with Bitler for 10 years and said he was excited for his boss to take the reigns of the department for good.

"I know it's going to be just how it's been ... and it's excellent," Rivera said.

Retired Sgt. Dave Ostertag also came to Bitler’s swearing in, and said he had quite the history with the new chief.

In 1991, Ostertag and Bitler were in a gunfight where 53 rounds were fired. One hit Ostertag in the chest, and Bitler protected him until help arrived.

Nearly 20 years later, the two remain good friends, Ostertag said, and Bitler’s appointment was something he just couldn’t miss.

“Of all the police officers I know, Gary has been loyal,” Ostertag said. “Through good times, bad times, Gary always would have a smile on his face.”

It also was good to see an officer promoted to chief from within the department, Ostertag said. Often, village boards overlook their own officers and go outside of the community to hire people who wind up having the exact same training as someone already in the department. Not so this time, Ostertag said.

“[Bitler] truly is the right person for this position,” Ostertag said.

The last police chief promoted internally was Ed Noe, who left in 1994, Chiarello said.

Former Round Lake Beach Police Chief Doug Larsson attended the ceremony and said Bitler’s knowledge of the department was a big asset for the community.

“Gary was my first friend here,” Larsson said. “He was the guy who met me at the door when I walked in the first time. He would always give me the benefit of his tribal knowledge, because he has such a rich history here.

“He’ll make his mark,” Larsson said. “He’ll leave a legacy.”