Starting next week, two long-time veterans of the Orangeville Police Service will share responsibilities as acting chief on an alternating basis while the police services board searches for a new chief.

"Quite honestly it's been a very satisfying 8 1/2 years, but it's time for me to move on and it's time for somebody else to come in here and take the police service to newer, greater heights," said Chief Rod Freeman, who is set to finish the job tomorrow.

Last Wednesday, the board agreed, at the two officers' suggestion, to split the position between Inspectors Wayne Davis and Mike Robinson, the two having shared the responsibility in the past.

"The community can have complete confidence in both these fellows," said Chief Freeman, who next month becomes Deputy Chief of Oxford County's police force.

"They're both outstanding police officers who are entirely dedicated to this community. I'm really pleased with the board's decision to give them the opportunity in the acting rank, at least for awhile, because I think they're deserving of that opportunity."

Inspector Davis has been with the force for his entire policing career - 32 years - and is in charge of operations. Inspector Robinson was born in Orangeville and has 30 years of experience, 28 of which have been spent in Orangeville.

"It should be business as normal; it won't affect the day-to-day operations of our service, whatsoever," Insp. Robinson said. "Inspectors on a routine basis work as part of an administrative team with the chief, so the duties are interchangeable."

Insp. Robinson has not determined whether he will apply for the chief's position, but admitted it's something he has thought about. He will start as acting chief this month, with Insp. Davis to act as chief in September, and the two will continue to rotate each month until a new chief is hired.

Insp. Davis could not be reached for comment.