Blumhagen had been serving as Acting Police Chief since August following the departure of former Chief of Police Steve Murray.  

Following an extensive vetting and interview process, the Lacombe Police Commission recommended the appointment of Blumhagen, which City Council then ratified.

"I'm very honoured with the support of our membership and staff throughout this entire process," Blumhagen said.

A top priority, Blumhagen explained is to continue to expand their level of service to the community.

"Looking at initiatives to formalize partnerships within the community, communication within the community and we'll work with the media in that regard. Also crime prevention initiatives and crime reduction strategies."

"As our community grows we want to make sure that we're keeping up with the times and meeting those needs."

Police Commission Chair Bob Huff explained why they thought he's the right individual for the job.

“We certainly appreciated the fact that Lorne had some credibility, he is a role model, he has got a lot of experience, he is involved in acting to promote the Police Service, he’s credible in the sense that he wants to do the best job possible for the citizens of Lacombe."  

Blumhagen has served with Lacombe Police since 2014 in the role of Inspector, and he brings with him a wealth of experience and several accolades including the Governor General's Exemplary Service Medal in 2012 and the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal for initiatives in crime reduction and enforcement strategies.

He first started his policing career with the RCMP in Camrose as a Summer Constable in 1985, from there he served with the Camrose Police Service where he was promoted to Sergeant in 2005 managing a Policing Team, and then he became the Non-Commissioned Officer in charge of the Major Crimes Unit.