Bernie Morton, the Town of Kindersley’s chief administrative officer, works his last day on July 20.

Clarion staff

Bernie Morton, the Town of Kindersley’s chief administrative officer (CAO) since 2012, has announced his resignation to pursue other professional opportunities. His last official day will be July 20.

“It is with deep appreciation and some sadness that we accept Bernie’s resignation and wish him well as he pursues the next stage of his career as chief administrative officer for another municipality. While it is Kindersley’s loss, this marks an exciting new chapter for Bernie and his family,” said Mayor Rod Perkins.

“Bernie’s contributions as a leader, advisor, and community builder for both Kindersley and the region have been tremendous throughout his six and a half years as CAO. He has been hugely instrumental in facilitating major commercial and residential developments, enhancing Kindersley’s profile throughout Saskatchewan and Canada, and successfully overseeing daily operations of the municipality.”

Perkins noted that Kindersley is currently enjoying considerable stability as major projects such as the indoor aquatic centre, and regional landfill both near completion and construction of the new fire hall will soon begin. Water main and road infrastructure projects continue on schedule, and council has successfully reduced expenditures and approved a 2018 budget with no increase to taxes.

“We will begin our search for a new CAO immediately and I am very happy to say that council and administration are in a strong position to manage in the interim. We certainly appreciate Bernie’s availability to assist in the transition,” the mayor said.

Morton will begin his new position on Aug. 1 and a formal announcement of his hire will be made by that municipality on Monday.

He expressed appreciation following his official announcement to staff.

“I am deeply grateful to the councils of the Town of Kindersley, both past and present, for whom I have had the privilege of working with; to Administration and staff members of all departments whose high level of commitment and dedication to their work has been both inspiring and rewarding; and to the citizens of Kindersley and our neighbouring municipalities for whom it has been my privilege to serve,” Morton said.

Watch for more details to come.

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