Councillors in HRM voted Tuesday to hire Jean-Michel Blais as the new Chief of Police. Blais will replace Halifax Regional police Chief Frank Beazley, who is retiring on Sept. 30.

Beazley announced he was retiring in April after nine years as chief, and 42 years in policing.

"There's really big boots to fill," said Richard Butts, CAO of HRM. He said Blais is highly respected.

Blais is currently the Chief Superintendent in charge of the Halifax District RCMP. He's been with the RCMP for 25 years

"He's relatively new to Halifax, perhaps in the last three years," said Butts. "That was one of his decision points if you talk to him, that was one of the most important things, was to really put down roots in Halifax and continue his really stellar career with us."

Earl Gosse of the Halifax Police Commission said five people were considered, and that list was cut to three finalists.

"Chief Superintendent Jean-Michel Blais certainly has a strong background in the RCMP," he said. "He has a strong academic background, he has international policing experience, he has experience in joint squads, he's an overall strong candidate."

Gosse said Blais will now work with Beazley through the transition. Blais assumes his new role on Oct. 10.