One of the two Roxburgh-based police officers, Senior Constable Jape Wanoa, retired in mid-April after 25 years in law enforcement.
He will not be replaced and Constable Lance Davies remains as the sole-charge Roxburgh officer.
Central Otago police sub-area commander Senior Sergeant Ian Kerrisk said the staffing levels were reviewed after former Snr Const Wanoa retired.
''That's the usual thing to do when someone resigns from a position, especially in a smaller community.
''Roxburgh has a very low crime rate and it's well-served by Constable Davies, so as a result, it was decided to use that second position within the rural policing team.''
Snr Sgt Kerrisk said the new community officer would work closely with sole-charge officers in Ranfurly, Omakau and Roxburgh, together with officers based at Cromwell and Alexandra and the rural sector.
''The officer will be in an overview role and will be out meeting with the rural community, focusing mostly on crime prevention - things like diesel thefts, general security on farms.
"I know that's difficult given the size of some of the farms in our area.
''The officer will also co-ordinate the poaching initiative which has been operating in this area. Poaching is an issue of real concern here.
"Stock thefts have also been highlighted to us as becoming a regular occurrence, although the number reported so far is low.''
Snr Sgt Kerrisk said the new role had been advertised and ''we're in the process of filling the role and someone on our local staff will be appointed.''
''The person needs to have a good knowledge of the rural sector and contacts within that sector.''
Police had consulted community leaders about the changes planned for staffing in Roxburgh.
''They've been very supportive and agree Roxburgh is well-served by Constable Davies and that the new [rural community officer] role will also provide more focus on the rural area, and appreciate that farmers, in particular, will notice an increased police presence,'' he said.
Roxburgh's first policeman arrived in the town in 1878 and since then, a total of 15 officers have served the area.
It has been a two-officer station for several decades.
