Leslie Groulx, chief administrative officer (CAO) for the District of Clearwater (DOC), has announced her retirement date, which will take place in May 2021.
“This may seem like a long time from now but time flies by,” said Groulx in a press release.
“I’ve been fortunate to have been with the municipality since its inception and building the foundation of the organization from the ground up has been equivalent to completing a masters degree in local government. I have had the opportunity to work with many outstanding staff and elected officials throughout the years who were and are committed to this community and our citizens.”
Some points Groulx considers highlights of her career as CAO include the recognition of the municipality for three community excellence awards, provincial and regional, as well as the commercial growth that’s taken place during her tenure.
She was also largely responsible for helping build relationships with all levels of government, including Simpcw First Nation.
Groulx helped implement and expand various programs and services for DOC residents, secured more than $18 million in grant funds since inception for the enhancement of said programs, as well as for the construction and development of important infrastructure that now serves the Clearwater community.
“Leading the district through a period of significant growth while supporting our neighbouring communities and working with the investment community while having the opportunity to develop and implement provincially recognized pilot projects as templates for other municipalities have been the most rewarding parts of my career,” Groulx said.
Mayor Merlin Blackwell added Groulx has been a champion for the community, as well as the North Thompson Valley as a whole, and noted the respect she carries from the greater local government community.
https://www.clearwatertimes.com/business/shop-stamp-and-win-encourages-shopping-local/
He said she’s handled her position as CEO with great integrity, professionalism, and forethought, crediting her with helping make Clearwater the envy of other communities that have similar issues and needs.
“On behalf of myself and council, it has been an honour, a privilege and an absolute pleasure to work with Ms. Groulx over the years, and we look forward to working with her to keep Clearwater moving forward through her transition toward retirement,” he said.
The DOC incorporated in December 2007 and Groulx started with the district a month later as the corporate officer as well as the economic development officer. Groulx was appointed as CAO for the district in June 2011.
Before joining the district, she spent three years with Thompson Nicola Regional District and previous to that spent time in education and forestry. She was also a self-employed accountant and business consultant for many years.
newsroom@clearwatertimes.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter