Search for Halifax's next police chief draws closer to conclusion

Halifax could soon have a new police chief.

The current chief, Jean-Michel Blais, is retiring at the end of March and according to a member of the hiring committee, the opening has sparked much interest including a number of internal candidates.

"About 30 people from across Canada," said Coun. Steve Craig, "And a diverse mix of candidates, gender and race."

Craig said the hiring committee expects to make a recommendation to the police commission next Monday.

"We'll then be able to take that to regional council on Tuesday for ratification," Craig said.

If the timing holds, a decision on a new police chief could be made the day before a report on street checks is released by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.

That report was prompted by a CBC News investigation that found black people were three times more likely to be targeted than white people.

A review of police services to look at ways to reduce costs is also underway.

Jacques Dub, Halifax's chief administrative officer, told the police commissiona draft report should be ready in June with final recommendations going to council in the fall.