By David Madden

CAMDEN, N.J. (CBS) – The move to replace Camden city cops with a new force run by Camden County continues, with the very public blessing of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie.

The county has hired a civilian director for the Metro Division that will cover Camden. The city plans to bring on a consultant to look after its interests next week.

Once the state approves the transition blueprint, the first of some 400 officers will be hired.

Christie has supported the consolidation from the start, and repeated that sentiment this week.

“A county police force that has a reasonable contract and that’s going to provide a huge increase in the number of police officers on the street for the people here in Camden is a win for everybody.”

Christie suggested that those who think pickets and lawsuits will stop the change might want to think again. And other towns looking to keep personnel costs in check may want to consider doing what Camden’s doing.