Bangor may soon lose its police chief to a higher calling — the job of state commissioner of public safety. A tough but worthwhile loss. Maine would benefit significantly from the work of this bright, able administrator who has served the city expertly in a difficult job.

Gov. Angus King’s nomination this week of Chief Randy Harriman to the commissioner’s post was gratifying news for the chief and the region. Chief Harriman is fast becoming reknowned for his abilities with a computer, but city officials also point out that he has been an effective leader in this community because he is organized, efficient and able to communicate well inside and outside the department.

Cabinet-counters in this region were happy to have Gov. King nominate someone from north of Augusta. But the news of the appointment is even more positive for this region for at least three reasons. First, the state is getting a good cop in a crucial position. Second, as commissioner, Chief Harriman would have a particularly deep understanding of the issues facing Northern and Eastern Maine that a law-enforcement officer from Southern Maine might not have. Third, it says a lot about the ability of this part of Maine to produce top candidates.

Joe Fessenden of Bangor is chief of the law-enforcement division for the Maine Marine Patrol; Jay McCloskey of Bangor serves as U.S. attorney for Maine; Bangor Police Lt. Roy McKinney has been named to lead the Maine Drug Enforcement Administration. Add Chief Harriman’s nomination, and the picture is clear: For law-enforcement officers willing to put in the hard work, the top jobs in the state are open to them. That says something good about them and something good about the level of training they receive here.

Bangor can afford to lose its top officers so long as they are going to larger positions in the state. The city should wish a deserving Chief Harriman well with the nomination process and in his new job.