The officer in charge of Ridge Meadows RCMP is leaving the detachment after four and a half years at the helm.

Supt. Dave Walsh is moving on to a role as a criminal operations program support officer at ‘E’ division headquarters.

His departure was announced on the detachment’s website July 24.

“I thank the communities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, as well as the mayor and council for all their support over my years as the RCMP detachment commander,” said Supt. Walsh.

“It’s been a great experience and I look forward to my new role.”

Insp. Dave Fleugal will step into the role of acting officer in charge until a new commander is named.

Maple Ridge Mayor Ernie Daykin was not surprised by Walsh’s departure, saying most commanders rotate out of Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows after four or five years.

“That’s the reality.”

The new commander will be picked by RCMP headquarters, but both Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows will be allowed input.

“We have had input in the past, so I don’t think that would change,” Daykin added.

Walsh took charge of Ridge Meadows RCMP in 2009, replacing Insp. Jim Wakely, who passed away from cancer that year.

The municipalities would prefer a new commander who is familiar with Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows and has spent time policing the area.

Daykin doesn’t foresee any drastic changes once a new officer takes charge.

“I’m happy with the level of service the RCMP provides us,” he said.