The selection of a new Sarnia police chief and deputy chief is imminent and will come from within the local force.
Police board Chair and Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley says they've narrowed their search down and hope to announce their decision soon.
"It is my hope by late next week that we can announce a new chief and deputy," says Bradley. "The board has been meeting over the last number of weeks, we interviewed 6 candidates, and we're very impressed with all the candidates."
Bradley says it's been a real challenge because of the calibre of the people they're trying to replace. He explains that the board wants to make sure they've addressed every question before making their final decision.
All of the candidates are members currently serving with the city police service. One inspector and three staff sergeants applied for the chief's job and three inspectors and four staff sergeants put their names forward for the deputy chief's position.
Input has been received from the Sarnia Police Association to help with the search, which is something Bradley says that hasn't been done before in the city.
"Who better to talk to than the people who represent the workers-- the men and women in uniform and the civilians," he says.
Chief Phil Nelson announced his retirement September 28 of last year, and his final day will be June 1. Deputy Chief Bob Farlow's last day is May 25 after making his announcement November 22.