Asst. Chief Clay Wheeler has been with the department since 1991.  (WJBC file photo)

By Zach Dietmeier

BLOOMINGTON - The Bloomington Police Department has named an interim police chief.

Assistant Chief Clay Wheeler is a 21-year veteran of the force who spent 13 years as a detective. Wheeler will take over while the department searches for a replacement to retiring Chief Randy McKinley.

While McKinley heads out the door on Friday, City Manager David Hales anticipates a continuation of the three-year Strategic Plan recently presented at Monday's city council meeting. He also expects Wheeler to help make recommendations on liquor licensing and other elements related to nightlife issues in Downtown Bloomington.

Details on recruiting a new chief will come later.

Zach Dietmeier can be reached at zach.dietmeier@cumulus.com.