By JOE BELANGER, The London Free Press
Last Updated: June 16, 2010 7:41am
Change at the top is almost always good for an organization, but particularly in a police service.
Every organization can benefit from a fresh set eyes, a change in style, or a new vision.
But it's especially good when the job is handed to someone from inside because it means people get promoted and change will cascade through the organization, reminding everyone with ambitions why they work so hard.
Brad Duncan, who will give up his deputy's badge for the chief's hat when Murray Faulkner retires July 31, has served this city well over the past 30 years and one can only conclude that outstanding work ethic and commitment to this community -- his community -- will continue.
Clearly, it was a difficult decision for the police services board to choose between Duncan and his colleague, Deputy Chief Ian Peer. Both men are well liked not only among the rank and file in the organization but also in the community to which they've contributed greatly as volunteers for a variety of organizations and causes.
But a decision had to made and as Faulkner said when that choice was announced Tuesday, "The board, the organization and the community were in a no-lose situation."
Peer demonstrated great class in how he handled the disappointment, promising to support and work with his colleague of three decades. One thing Londoners shouldn't expect to see is dramatic change. There is little need for big change. It's clear there is relative peace between senior management and the rank and file and a strong relationship between our police and the public.
Duncan quite rightly said he'll focus on building on Faulkner's initiatives, while preparing the force for the future.
He's got a tough row to hoe. Budgets are tight. Technology is changing. New regulations and laws continue to tax the work day of every police officer. And the public's demand for service, for a safe and secure community is insatiable.
But throughout his career Duncan has demonstrated a keen ability to understand and overcome issues, challenges and problems with innovative and creative solutions. And much of his success, as he's quick to mention, is the support and talents of colleagues, such as Peer, and the other police officers who work under his leadership.
Sleep tight, London. You're in good hands.
E-mail joe.belanger@sunmedia.ca, or follow joebatlfpress on Twitter.
From IFpress published on June 16, 2010 7:41am