Town of Westlock CAO Dean Krause was recognized by the Society of Government Managers with its Award of Excellence.
The honuor was announced at the society’s leadership forum in Kananaskis two weeks ago and includes a cash prize and stylized bison trophy.
“I was pretty surprised and shocked,” said Krause, who was humbled to be placed in the same league as previous winners, which includes former town CAO Norm McInnis. “It was not expected. I was a little bewildered.
“To me the award is a realization of how good a council I work with and the staff that I work with because even though this award is for personal achievement in municipal government, there’s nothing I’ve achieved that hasn’t been a team effort.”
Ultimately, Krause said doing his job to the best of his ability and getting positive results is reward enough.
“I try to do my job and stay out of the limelight,” he said. “Honestly, everything we do is the work of a lot of people and a lot of teamwork.
Krause also took the opportunity to thank his wife.
“We’ve given up a lot of family times and evenings because of open houses and council meetings and so forth. She’s always been there to support me.”
In presenting Krause with a certificate on behalf of the town council, mayor Ralph Leriger praised the job the municipality’s CAO is doing.
“I just wanted to say how proud our council is and all the staff are of you,” said Leriger, noting the award reflected well on the town as a whole. “It a big deal for Westlock.
“You’ve created a culture of confidence and respect and the office is very productive and has lots of fun at the same time and that’s not an easy thing to do.
To win the award, Krause’s nomination was evaluated by the society’s board members and then sent to a final judge.
The award is given annually and the society’s website says it recognizes the varied positive qualities make a great municipal manager.
