GIRARD Four captains are eligible to take police chief test

A replacement will be selected for Anthony Ross, who retired after 32 years.
GIRARD -- The city will soon have a new police chief.
On Monday, Captain John Villecco began his first day as acting chief. The 32-year veteran will most likely remain in that capacity until results of a civil service exam to pick a new chief are finalized, said Mayor James Melfi. Villecco and the three other captains are all eligible to take the test.
Former Police Chief Anthony "Buster" Ross, 80, finished his 32-year run Feb. 25.
"Chief Ross was here for so long that many people can't believe he is actually retired," Melfi said. "Even my father called and asked if I was sure he retired."
Villecco said Monday he plans to take the exam. He did not know the plans of the other three captains.
Captains Frank Bigowsky, Jeff Palmer and Michael Williams could not be reached.
More candidates possible
"The test has to be competitive so if, for instance, the other captains don't decide to take it we would open it up to the entire department," Melfi said.
The test is broken down to two portions, a written part and an oral exam. Dates for testing have not been scheduled.
The mayor is hoping to have a new chief in place in May.
"There won't be any major changes taking place with the department until the new chief is officially appointed," the mayor said. He noted that there is no money at this time to hire additional patrol officers.
City council is planning to place a 0.25-percent income tax on the November general election ballot. If that levy passes it will raise about $400,000 a year for the department.
City officials said the levy is successful they would like to hire a juvenile officer.