ATHABASCA — Just when it looked like it was smooth sailing ahead, Athabasca County announced June 8, it is once again on the hunt for a new chief administrative officer (CAO).
In a late afternoon media release that day, reeve Brian Hall announced newly-hired CAO Rod Risling has resigned from the position to pursue an unexpected opportunity, but will remain in the position until July 28, allowing time for council to find his replacement. Risling started April 25, taking over from interim CAO Dawn Phillips who filled in for 10 months after longtime CAO Ryan Maier abruptly resigned June 24, 2021. Phillips has now returned full-time to her position as director of Agriculture and Community Services.
“It has been a pleasure to get to know, and work with CAO Risling, who in his tenure at Athabasca County has demonstrated the leadership that council was looking for,” said Hall. “We are disappointed to lose him to another municipality. However, we recognize the alignment of this opportunity with Mr. Risling’s personal aspirations and wish him success.”
Hall added county council has already started the search for a replacement and they have full confidence in senior administration to ensure there are no disruptions during the recruitment process.
“Council remains focused on attention to quality service, investment attraction, and greater collaboration and engagement with residents and regional stakeholders,” he said.
In the media release, Risling acknowledged the timing is not ideal, but noted it truly is a unique opportunity that is luring him away, but further details were not disclosed.
The Times Chronicle newspaper reported June 8 that Risling has been hired as CAO of the Town of Osoyoos in B.C.'s southern Okanagan region.
“I am excited to return to Osoyoos where I have owned a home for the past 17 years and become part of the local community," Risling told the publication.
“I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with the council and the quality team in Athabasca County,” he said in the media release. “Not only do I appreciate the rural and recreational amenities of the region, but I feel strongly there exists considerable potential and opportunities for the county and its partners.”
