McHenry police chief set to retire; deputy chief to take over

McHENRY – The city of McHenry will have a new police chief Oct. 20 after the retirement of Chief John Jones.

Jones has served on the McHenry police force for the past 28 years, working his way up from patrol officer until he was named chief seven years ago. During his time on the force, he developed a consolidated dispatch center, the School Safety Committee and the Adopt-a-School program, according to a news release from the city of McHenry.

Deputy Police Chief John Birk will succeed Jones, effective Oct. 20. Birk will formally be sworn into the position at 7 p.m. Nov. 6 in front of the City Council.

Birk has been with the McHenry Police Department since 1999 and has been the deputy chief since 2011. He also is the task force commander of the McHenry County Major Crash Investigation Assistance Team, according to the release.

“Deputy Chief Birk possesses the personal integrity, leadership qualities and technical skills required to ensure that the McHenry Police Department continues to provide the highest quality services and programs to the residents of our community,” McHenry City Administrator Derik Morefield said. “While Deputy Chief Birk will most certainly bring his own leadership style and ideas for continuing the positive evolution of the department, his promotion will ensure a seamless and stable transition.”

The city will host a retirement reception for Jones at 3:30 Oct. 19 in the City Council chambers at the McHenry Municipal Center, 333 S. Green St. Cake and refreshments will be served, and all are welcome.