Scugog seeks out a new CAO following Ken Nix's departure

DAN CEARNS The Standard

SCUGOG: The Township of Scugog is seeking a new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) following Ken Nix's departure. At a meeting on Thursday, July 11th, Scugog council voted to name current acting clerk Ralph Walton as their acting CAO as well while they search for a permanent replacement.

"Mr. Walton will continue to serve as the municipal clerk to support Council as they undertake the hiring process for a permanent CAO. Mr. Walton brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this position. He has more than 40 years of experience in the municipal and provincial sectors. The Township of Scugog Council is very confident Mr. Walton is the right person to guide the municipality during this transition period. Please join us in welcoming Ralph Walton to this interim role," a Scugog Township press release stated.

Mayor Wilma Wotten also released a statement regarding the departure of Mr. Nex.

"Ken Nix has departed from the Township of Scugog, and on behalf of the Township, I would like to extend my thanks to Mr. Nix for his service as CAO over the last three and a half years. Ken joined us during the latter half of the pandemic and maintained business continuity. He is a seasoned senior leader, and we wish him all the very best in his future endeavours."

A report from Robyn Hulowski, the Township's Manager of Human Resources, explained the CAO position became vacant on Friday, July 5th.

"The need to recruit a new CAO is a major priority currently. The Township's CAO position is appointed by Council to provide leadership and general management of the Township based on directives and policies adopted by Council. The CAO is the key advisor to Council. The CAO acts as the liaison between the Council and the values and strategic directions of the Township, as well as the legislative framework surrounding the municipality. It is imperative a recruitment drive be undertaken as soon as possible, given Councils' ambitious strategic plan and articulated goals," the report added.

The report noted the anticipated salary for the next CAO is between $132,738 and $181,526. Mr. Nix took over the role of CAO in September 2020 following the retirement of former CAO Paul Allore.