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Montgomery swears in Chris Byrne as police chief; board honors retiring Chief Phil Smith
Summary
The Village of Montgomery swore in Chris Byrne as its new police chief and presented a commemorative retirement coin to outgoing Chief Phil Smith. Byrne pledged community partnership; board members thanked Smith for decades of service.
The Village of Montgomery formally swore in Chris Byrne as its new police chief and honored retiring Chief Phil Smith during the board meeting.
President Brawley administered the oath and invited Byrne to address the board. Byrne, who the board said brings more than 30 years of combined military and law-enforcement experience, said, "I will also be out in the community regularly, meeting with our residents, our businesses, and our corporate partners who help make Montgomery strong." He emphasized an "open door policy" for residents who have questions or concerns.
Before the swearing-in, Christina Nemes introduced remarks recognizing Phil Smith’s career and presented a commemorative retirement coin. Nemes thanked Smith "for your unwavering commitment to public safety, your steady leadership, and your service to this community." Trustees and staff echoed appreciation for Smith’s leadership and service.
Byrne described his prior roles in patrol, gang tactics, detective work and community-oriented policing, and said he looks forward to "building strong partnerships with Montgomery residents, businesses, and community stakeholders." The board did not take any formal votes tied to the swearing-in; the ceremonial items closed with applause and an informal reception.
The board listed no immediate operational changes tied to the swearing-in; Byrne said he will focus on relationship-building and regular community engagement as he assumes the role.
