The District of Houston is losing its chief administrative officer to Smithers.
Michael Dewar, who came to the community from the District of Kitimat in January 2022, is leaving as of Jan. 14, 2024.
He begins his new job as chief administrative office for Smithers the next day.
“Michael has diligently worked to provide council and I with sound advice, broad vision, and administrative leadership to progress community priorities and maintain strong service delivery,” said District of Houston mayor Shane Brienen in a release today.
In particular, Dewar helped the council and District navigate the closure of Canfor’s mill and months of uncertainty leading up to the company announcement it will build a new facility.
“Although we are sad to see him move on, we appreciate the contributions he has made in the organization and community,” added Brienen.
Dewar came to Houston from an economic development position at the District of Kitimat and is one of a contingent of northern local government officials to emerge from a training and job experience program supported by the Northern Development Initiative Trust.
“Working with council, staff, and the community to further long-term strategicinitiatives is a great honour. While I am excited to pursue new opportunities, I will always cherish the memories and experiences gained during my time working with the community,” said Dewar.
The District is employing a temporary replacement while the search is on for a permanent chief administrative officer.