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The Johns Creek Police Department parking lot was aflutter with blue lights, cheers and flashing cameras Saturday night as the inaugural city police force rolled out to hit the streets for the very first patrol.

On Saturday afternoon the city hosted opening day ceremonies to commemorate the police force’s first day serving the city. The city also had a ceremonial ribbon cutting, officially cutting the tie between a Johns Creek Police Car and a Fulton County Police car.

In his speech, Mayor Mike Bodker recognized that Saturday was a big day for city in achieving goals set forth when the city officially came into existence December 2006.

“The launching of our police force is another significant way we deliver on the promise to serve to our citizens,” said Bodker.

One of the reasons citizens of Johns Creek voted to become a city was to provide their own services such as police and fire.

“It is an exciting time. That is part of the reason we became the city of Johns Creek -- we’ve got local enforcement and local contacts,” said Councilman Ivan Figueroa.

However, the Mayor did not forget to thank the Fulton County police department for their service.

“For 33 years the men and women of the Fulton County Police Department have faithfully protected lives and property in what is now the city of Johns Creek. They have provided exemplary service and we owe them a great deal of gratitude,” said Bodker.

Bodker also took time to thank Police Chief Ed Densmore and the 56 officers joining the city.

“In observing our Chief, I am pleased to see that community policing is a core part of his philosophy and that you as officers will be placing a premium on accessibility and openness to our citizens,” said Bodker.

At 12 a.m. Sunday morning Fulton County Officially transferred power to the Johns Creek police department where officers began patrolling the streets.

“It is humbling to address a group full of people doing what you do, I wear a suit and carry a pen while you carry guns and wear body armor,” said Bodker.

Watch Highlights from the Ceremony Below: