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As the first day of operation for the newly formed Lycoming County Regional Police approaches, the department hosted a meet-and-greet in Old Lycoming Township on Thursday.
The Lycoming County Regional Police Department officially will become the second-largest police force in the county beginning Sunday.
"This year we embark on a new venture," said Sean Simcox, a member of the Jersey Shore Borough Council and chairman of the newly established police commission. "This is a step forward for all of the residents served and I am proud of the hard work so many of you put into making this happen."
According to many who spoke, regionalization has been in the works for the past three years. Chief of the department, Nathan DeRemer, wanted to reiterate that services will only expand through regionalization to guarantee 24/7 police coverage for the nine municipalities involved.
"In today's climate, police departments have to be strong, innovative and versatile in this ever-changing landscape," DeRemer said. "This is a step toward that for all involved."
DeRemer also announced that the department was awarded $200,000 in grant funding to help make the first year an effective one.
DeRemer introduced the members of the new department, who all have experience in their respective municipalities.
Regionalization met the most public resistance in Old Lycoming Township when it was passed in September. Joe Hamm, R-Hepburn Township, spoke about the need to back law enforcement now more than ever.
"We're not here today to debate this," Hamm said. "We're here to celebrate law enforcement and to let them know we have their backs. We are here to stand in unity with the Lycoming Regional Police Department."
Hamm has worked as an official for Jersey Shore, as a supervisor in Hepburn Township and has worked closely with both the Tiadaghton Valley Regional Police commission and Old Lycoming Township.
"You couldn't find two better police departments to bring together," Hamm said. "Whether you agree or disagree, I assure you there is no better service."
Also present to show support of the new department was the director of the county's Department of Public Safety, Jeff Hutchins, and Lycoming County Judge William Carlucci.
Hutchins remarked that the newly merged departments will join 35 departments spanning 25 municipalities across the state who have also taken the route toward regionalization and joint services.
All members of the new department were present showcasing their new logo and new squad cars.