There's been a change within the ranks of the Morden Police Service.

Sean Aune, a 21-year veteran of the force, has been promoted from Sergeant to a newly created Inspector role.

Four years in the making, Chief Brad Neduzak says this new position will add another layer of administrative support within the department.

"Basically, it'll be allowing more of the administrative duties, such as policies and procedures which are so important to have in place, to be looked at more carefully," he explained, adding with expected changes coming to the Police Services Act, which is currently under review by the Province, the new position is quite timely.

Aune started as a Constable with the Morden Police Service in October 2000 and was promoted to Sergeant in January 2010 where Neduzak says he provided operational leadership through supervision of subordinates as well as review and direction on various major investigations and projects. Aune also joined the newly created Regional Support Tactical Team in 2014, comprised of members from Altona, Winkler and Morden Police Services. In 2018, he attended the Canadian Police College in Ottawa where he completed the Senior Police Administration Course.

"He is very well-qualified for the position with lots of experience, as well he is well-respected amongst the service and co-workers here and within the community, so he is well-deserving of this position," added Neduzak.

Meantime, the new Inspector position will allow for succession planning and further promotion within the department.

In fact, the change-up will kick start a contest among the remaining members to fill Aune's now-vacant Sergeant post.

"It's always good when members can be in a smaller service and see some advancement," said Neduzak, adding it's good for careers and keeping people fresh with new ideas coming through the ranks.