BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The city of Bowling Green named a new top cop.

Lt. Col. Mike Delaney was introduced as the city's new police chief and was eager to meet the community on his first day on the job this weekend. 

The City Commission chose and approved Delaney Tuesday, July 28. He succeeds former Chief Doug Hawkins who served for 14 years. 

Delaney has served the Bowling Green community since 1998, holding various positions in the force. His first order of business as chief is to begin the promotion process by reviewing and promoting officers up for promotion. 

Holding a community meet and greet on his first official day as chief, Delaney says he hopes to set the tone for the rest of his career as chief.

“The goal is to be community-oriented policing. To have transparency and let the police department work, and let the community know the police department and have this personal interaction is what I thought is important,” said Delaney. 

Delaney is also the first African American police chief in Bowling Green. Community engagement has always been a priority for the new officer in charge. Community member and longtime friend of Delaney’s, Chris Page, says his engaging and dedicated nature will serve as a great example for the rest of the force.

“Its America making history again and in these turbulent times, we really need that, and it's not something that was given to him, it was something that he actually earned. As a chief, what I think he’s going to do is inspire his other officers below him to get into the community as well,” said Page. 

Celebrating his first day on the job with friends, family and fellow officers, he is humbled by the opportunity to serve and protect the community he calls home.

“I’ve been privileged to grow up in this community, work in this community and I’m even more privileged to serve in this community so thank you all for coming out tonight and I appreciate all the love and support you’ve given me,” said Delaney.