By Lawrence Powell
Spectator
NovaNewsNow.com
A new face on the Annapolis Royal Police Department may look vaguely familiar to some of the town’s older residents – that’s because Burt McNeil started his policing career there in May of 1981. Now he’s the new chief in town and couldn’t be happier.
“I have been very fortunate to do all my policing in this area,” he said. “I enjoy the quality of life that comes with living in small communities and I will work at maintaining that quality of life for the residents of Annapolis Royal.”
McNeil spent the first two months of his rookie career in Annapolis Royal before being called to the big city of Middleton where he quickly learned the ropes, enrolled in numerous training programs, and became somewhat of an institution in that community over the next 20 years.
When Middleton disbanded its municipal police force, McNeil was absorbed into the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and has been a Mountie for almost 10 years now, retiring as a member on November 18 of this year.
McNeil was sworn in as chief of police for the Town of Annapolis Royal on December 21.
“The town and the board of police commissioners are very much looking forward to working with Burt for the years to come,” said town CAO Amery Boyer.
McNeil also anticipates a good relationship and hopes to work with youth and seniors, increase police visibility, and continue such initiatives as the force’s recently implemented bike patrols.
“I am looking forward to working with the business owners and public alike to help solve any problems that might occur,” McNeil said. “The Town of Annapolis Royal has a fine police department and we will continue to deliver a professional police service to the public and business alike.”
McNeil takes over from acting chief Cpl. William Chase, and along with Chase will work with Const. Nicole Campbell and Const. Joel Foster.
“I have capable people,” he said, adding that for the first little while he will be digesting his new situation and learning from them.
McNeil, from a family of 17 children, now lives with his partner Sandra Spurr in Moschelle.
Also on December 21, the town and the board presented former Chief Ross Campbell and Sgt. Dale Miller with provincial long-service awards in recognition of their long and faithful service to the community.
Annapolis Royal has new police chief
Annapolis Royal has new police chief
Law enforcement career comes full circle for Burt McNeil
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