Saanich will have a new police chief in two years.
Chief Constable Robert Downie announced Tuesday that he has signed a contract to 2019 and plans to retire as of July 2019.
Downie has spent his entire 35 years in law enforcement with the Saanich Police Department.
Mayor Richard Atwell praised Downie for his dedication. “Today, we are particularly thankful to Chief Downie for his commitment to stay on the job and to help ensure a smooth transition through to the hiring of a new chief,” he said.
Downie retired from his status as an employee which paid him out $378,790 in severance and accrued wages and started a new two-year contract (effective Aug. 1) through to July 31, 2017.
Downie will earn a fixed annual salary of $222,711 plus benefits, vacation and other items.
wolfgang.depner@saanichnews.com
