Wasaga Beach names interim CAO

News release from Wasaga Beach

Today, Mayor Brian Smith announced that Gerry Marshall will serve as interim chief administrative officer for the Town of Wasaga Beach.

“I am delighted that Gerry will be assisting us,” Mayor Smith said. “Gerry brings to the job energy and knowledge that I know will serve our community well.”

Marshall is replacing George Vadeboncoeur as chief administrative officer until a permanent CAO is named by the next council. Vadeboncoeur is retiring after nearly 13 years with the municipality.

Council engaged a consultant to assist it with the selection process and considered three candidates. Acting on advice from the majority of the members of council, Vadeboncoeur authorized a six-month employment contract with Marshall, effective Aug. 23. Vadeboncoeur will support Marshall until Sept. 28 to ensure a smooth transition.

Immediately following the inaugural of the new town council in December, Marshall will present council with a staff report outlining options for the selection of a permanent chief administrative officer.

“I look forward to serving town council over the months ahead and providing effective guidance to our staff,” Marshall said. “I will work to see that council’s objectives are met and I am excited about working with staff to ensure the best municipal services are delivered for the residents of Wasaga Beach.”

Prior to this interim engagement, Marshall was the mayor of Penetanguishene and warden for the County of Simcoe. Marshall was nearing the end of his second term on Penetanguishene council when he resigned to accept this contract with the Town of Wasaga Beach.

Prior to entering the political realm, Marshall worked in the private sector, having served as vice-president of business development with Globalive Communications, as well as vice-president of operations for Cogeco Cable. He also was a senior director with Look Communications, and served in various senior roles with Maclean Hunter Cable TV and Rogers Cablesystems.

“We are fortunate to have someone with Gerry’s experience and I hope residents and staff will extend a warm welcome to him over the days and weeks ahead,” Smith said.