The head of the Toronto Police Association is resigning from his post.
Dave Wilson, who has served as president of the TPA since 2004, made the surprise announcement in an internal memo Tuesday. He said he accepted a new position in Brampton and will be leaving his post at the end of May.
His new job as the director of Brampton's enforcement and by-law services begins June 8, 2009.
"The decision to move on and accept new challenges has not been made lightly and has been made out of a desire to create a better work/life balance," Wilson said in the memo, which was obtained by ctvtoronto.ca.
He called his time at the helm of the TPA "the high point" of his 21-year policing career but that his three children and wife now need his full attention.
"Leading the Association through its most turbulent times has required a 24-7, 365 (days a year) commitment that has at times taken a toll on time spent with my family," he said.
Wilson famously clashed with Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair in 2005 when he encouraged union to wear their uniforms during a job action rally against the chief's wishes.
Blair was accused of unfairly punishing officers who wore their uniform at the rally.
Wilson made headlines again last year when he argued that officers should receive Family Day off just like other civil servants. The association took out ads in Toronto newspapers to make their point.
An election will be held in the fall to replace Wilson.
Const. Michael McCormack, son of former police chief William McCormack, is said to be vying for the job.
He ran against Wilson in 2006 and lost to the incumbent by 24 votes.
