North Okanagan RCMP looking for new officer in charge

by Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star posted Feb 10, 2015 at 3:00 PM

The North Okanagan is searching for a new top cop. Supt. Reg Burgess, officer in charge of the Vernon/North Okanagan RCMP, has announced his retirement. “This is one of the best posts of my career,” he said of the local detachment which he has managed for five years. “It’s a great community and the North Okanagan is one of the best places to live in.” Burgess has spent 35 years in the RCMP and has served across B.C. including in Lake Country and Kelowna. Burgess’ last shift will be March 19. The RCMP will now post the vacancy and some local mayors will be involved in the recruitment process. “There will be at least a dozen looking to get the post. This is a desirable location,” said Burgess of the North Okanagan. A new officer in charge could be in place in June. Burgess announced his retirement at Vernon council Tuesday. “He’s been a good head of the local RCMP and he’s earned his retirement,” said Coun. Bob Spiers. “He’s been really good to work with and he understands our challenges with budgets and trying to reduce crime,” added Coun. Juliette Cunningham.