Dan Small appointed Lac La Biche County CAO

Lac La Biche County has officially decided on their next chief administrative officer.

Dan Small was appointed during Tuesday’s council meeting after being the acting CAO since January. 

“Council and I were impressed with Mr. Small’s leadership when he took on the Acting CAO role, along with his strong ties to the community,” said Mayor Paul Reutov in a press release. “Mr. Small has played an active part in Lac La Biche County’s growth over the last few years, and we’re confident in his ability to carry out Council’s ambitious new vision and strategic goals.”

Small has over ten years of senior leadership experience in Lac La Biche County in the finance, grants, and land-use planning areas, and led County efforts to become a specialized municipality in 2018.

Prior to joining Lac La Biche County in 2012, Small was CAO of Thorhild County, with a background as a chartered professional accountant. 

“Lac La Biche County is a shining example of innovative local government and is gradually being looked upon as a leader in Alberta,” said Small in a press release. “I’m looking forward to continuing to implement Council’s strategic direction in collaboration with our communities, my colleagues, and the public.”

Council voted not to extend the contract of the previous CAO Ken van Buul in December. In 2019, then CAO Shadia Amblie’s contract was not renewed.

The CAO is council’s sole employees and directs town administration and staff.