A Special Meeting on CAO Recruitment Efforts
Lac La Biche County Search for a New CAO. On the morning of August 31, Lac La Biche County held a special closed session meeting to discuss the ongoing recruitment efforts for a new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Check Your Application Status now.
Change in Leadership
Dan Small, who had served as a senior municipal administrator for 11 years, was released from his position following an in-camera council session on June 13. The decision to end Small’s employment was based on the council’s desire for a change in leadership.
The Quest for a New CAO Persists
Since Small’s departure, the municipality has actively been searching for a new CAO. However, as of now, the position remains vacant.
Closed Session Deliberations
During the meeting on August 31, most of the discussions took place in-camera to protect personal privacy. The only publicly disclosed topic on the agenda was the recruitment of a Chief Administrative Officer.
Decision and Resolution
After nearly three hours of closed-door discussions, the council decided not to ratify the appointment of a prospective CAO candidate. Additionally, they passed a resolution to continue collaborating with a third-party organization to aid in CAO recruitment.
Elected Council Unique Control
It’s important to note that the CAO position is the only administrative role directly controlled by elected councillors.
Acting CAO in Place
In June, County councillors appointed Melanie McConnell as Acting Chief Administrative Officer until a permanent replacement for Dan Small is found. The search for a new CAO remains an ongoing priority for the council.