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New chief takes reins ByDAVID LEA Metroland Media Group Halton's new police chief did not mince words Tuesday when he vowed that under his leadership, Halton Regional Police Service would not only meet community expectations, but also exceed them. A deeply honoured and humbled Stephen Tanner took over the reins of what he called "a tremendously successful organization," during a swearing-in and changeof-command ceremony at the Burlington Convention Centre Tuesday. "As your chief of police, I look forward to working with the hundreds of dedicated and professional members of the Halton Regional Police Service as we move towards and continue to make Halton the safest community in the nation," he said. About 400 police officers, public officials and dignitaries attended the event, which began with Tanner and outgoing Halton Police Chief Gary Crowell inspecting the police service's honour guard. Police services board chair Robert Maich praised Crowell, who retired in June, for accomplishments during his years as chief, including the creation of specialized units to combat domestic abuse, sexual assault and Internet child exploitation. Maich also noted Crowell recently received the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal and the fact he was police chief when Halton was named the safest regional municipality in Canada. Tanner is the former Kingston chief who became one of the youngest chiefs in Canada when he headed Belleville's service at age 41. "I am confident Chief Tanner will maintain and build upon the talent of the Halton Regional Police team," said Maich. Crowell welcomed Tanner back to Halton, noting the new chief is an Oakville native who began his policing career in the region in 1982. Tanner left in 1998 to become Deputy Chief of Operations with Guelph police. Crowell acknowledged much has changed in Halton since Tanner left, not the least of which is its population, diversity, police service size and the budget that Chief Gary W. Crowell (right) transfers his authority to new Chief Stephen J. Tanner with the ceremonial sword during the change of command ceremony Tuesday. Nikki Wesley/Metroland Media Group supports it. "What has not changed, Steve, is the dedication, motivation, and professionalism of the members of the Halton Regional Police Service. I have been so fortunate to be allowed to lead such a professional organization and work with the many men and women here in Halton," said Crowell. "What has not changed is the promise that we have made to involve the community with how we do policing here in Halton. What has not changed is the commitment of this community to work with their police service to ensure Halton is as safe tomorrow as it is today. "I wish you well and only the best in the next leg of the relay," said Crowell, stating it was time to pass the baton to Tanner. Following the speeches, Tanner recited his oath of office before Justice Brian O'Marra. Crowell handed him a sword symbolizing the transfer of the chief's authority and Maich presented Tanner with the chief's badge. The new chief tipped his hat to all the Halton police chiefs before him stating each made a contribution and he looks to do the same. He also took the time to thank his wife, Colette, and two sons, Jordan and Arony. While the title of safest regional municipality in Canada is an amazing accomplishment for Halton, Tanner said the police service and the community should not rest on its laurels. The future, he vowed, would see a renewed emphasis on organizational and investigative excellence and the balancing of police resources between frontline investigations, crime prevention and community resources. GEORGETOWN GARDEN CENTRE Closed Mondays 3 ·The IFP· Halton Hills, Thursday, September 6, 2012 140 GUELPH ST. 905-877-8882 (The former Georgetown Fruit Market building) ROMA TOMATOES GARDEN MUMS ONTARIO GROWN MULCH Huge Selection 2 cu ft Red/Cedar/ Canada Red 3 2000 FOR$ (10" pot) FOR THE GARDEN $599 Peaches & Cream Super Sweet Large Size Perennial Plants Hydrangeas Rose of Sharon Perennial Grasses & more Corn Local Grown Huge selection of Peaches Tomatoes & MIXED ACCENT PLANTERS Great colours & variety from $19.99 T op Soil 25 litre bag $ 1.99 ... g n i c n u o n n A KEVIN Mc cCAFFERTY OUTSIDE SALES MANAGER Owners Bill and Elizabeth Graham along with Store Manager Riley McAneney would like to invite all contractors to stop by and meet Kevin and take advantage of our Trade Card program. 348 GUELPH STREET, GEORGETOWN Hours: Mon. - Fri. 6:30 am - 8:00 pm, Sat. 7:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sun. 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Hwy. 7 Georgetown RONA Apple Auto Glass e-mail: hassellsauto@bellnet.ca www.hassellautomotive.com Warranty Warranty Warranty 2005 Mazda 3 2006 Hyundai Elantra · Automatic · Cruise Control · Certified & E-Tested $7,700 · Automatic 4 cyl. · Air Conditioning · Certified & E-Tested CALL $7,800 2005 Hyundai Elantra · Automatic 4 cyl. · Air Conditioning · AM/FM CD Player · Certified & E-Tested + HST $6,800 + HST + HST