The Winnipeg Police Board didn't have to go very far to find the next chief of police.
Following a nationwide search, the board is set to approve current Deputy Chief Danny Smyth to head the service.
Smyth replaces Devon Clunis, who retired earlier this year. Clunis clashed with city hall over the budget and threatened layoffs at one point.
The new chief-designate is the first one chosen by the police board.
"I am ready to lead the service where it needs to go," Smyth said Monday.
"We will maintain a balance of community support and engagement -- this will include us being there for urgent calls when we are needed to investigate and solve serious crime, but this will all be done with a background of fiscal restraint."
Smyth has more than 30 years of experience with the Winnipeg Police Service, working in a number of areas including uniform operations and covert investigations.
Mayor Brian Bowman congratulated Smyth for taking on the demanding role.
"The chief of police is an important role, and the person in it plays a critical leadership role in our community," he said in a statement. "I look forward to working alongside Deputy Chief Smyth in the future, and would like to wish him all the best as he officially begins his tenure next month."
The board votes on the appointment Nov. 4, with a swearing in ceremony set for Nov. 8."I am ready to lead the service where it needs to go," Smyth said Monday.
- With files from The Canadian Press
