By Corey Fischer

RCMP Leader Leaving Post

Feb 23, 2018 | 10:48 AM

The search will soon be on for a new head of the Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP.

Current Superintendent Jim McNamara has informed the city, he will be retiring this spring.

Mayor Akbal Mund says McNamara’s service to the area has been “exemplary,” and he will be missed, once he leaves, likely by May.

“He’s greatly respected by all that worked under him, and he got along with all the social agencies within the community, and it will be a great loss for the city,”Mund tells CJIB News.

McNamara has had a 30-plus year career with the RCMP.

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He’s been at the Vernon detachment since 2010, and was appointed the officer in charge in October 2015, taking over for Reg Burgess.

“I know Gord Stewart (Inspector) will probably become the acting superintendent for the time being,” says Mund. “Gord came out of Kelowna, but has lived in Coldstream for many years. He’s got a good vibe on the community so I think we’re still left in pretty good hands with Gord.”

The mayor says the process to hire a new ‘top cop’ will take several months.

“That usually comes from the RCMP. They will select some people, and then the mayors will get together. We do the interviews of the candidates and select a new superintendent,” adds Mund.

McNamara is scheduled to make what is called a ‘special presentation’ to city council on Monday in relation to his retirement.

by Corey Fischer