The city of North Liberty has officially appointed its newest police-force leader. 

In a Thursday press release, North Liberty Mayor Tom Salm on Thursday announced that interim Police Chief Diane Venenga will have “interim” dropped from her title.

Pending a City Council vote at during a Sept. 24 meeting, Venenga will officially assume the position.

Venenga has played an active role in the North Liberty Police Department for 14 years, offering the department her skills in the areas of political science and criminology, in which she earned degrees at the University of Northern Iowa.

She has served as an officer, sergeant, and lieutenant for the city police.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to continue to serve this community,” Venenga said in the release. “I’m dedicated to North Liberty, and I look forward to serving this town by helping to make this department be the best it can be.”

The community and media will have the opportunity to get acquainted with the new chief at 9 a.m. on Oct. 1 in the North Liberty Community Center, 520 W. Cherry St.

— by Greta Meyle