Adam Betteridge, Director of Building and Planning for the City of Stratford, was named interim CAO at Monday night’s city council meeting.
Joan Thomson, retiring at the end of the month, was honoured by Mayor Martin Ritsma for 40 years of public service.
Thomson received a standing ovation in council chambers.
A recruitment committee to find a new CAO includes Ritsma and councillors Mark Hunter, Harj Nijjar, Jo-Dee Burbach and Brad Beatty.
Musician Loreena McKennitt spoke to council to underscore the importance of hiring the right person.
McKennitt said it may be the most important file and decision in front of this council and recommended the city secure outside professional assistance.
Ritsma asked Thomson to play a role in the recruitment and that an HR consultant will also aid in the process.
