County of St. Paul hires new CAO

The County of St. Paul has found a new Chief Administrative Officer. 

On Friday, the County announced the hiring of Jason Wallsmith, who will officially begin on Monday, January 8, 2024. 

Longtime CAO Sheila Kitz said earlier this year that she would be retiring.

“We knew it would be very difficult to find a replacement for Ms. Kitz, so Council engaged in a professional search process to secure a CAO who could effectively continue to build on Council’s desire for continuous improvement, quality service, investment and attraction, and greater collaboration and engagement with residents and regional stakeholders,” said Reeve Glen Ockerman in a press release.  

“Council took great care to find an individual with the right qualifications and character to fulfill this key role. Jason demonstrated through his personality, education, background and experience that he would be a good fit for the County. We look forward to working with him.” 

Wallsmith previously worked as CAO for the last five years at the Municipal District at Acadia. He also worked at the Western Irrigation District in Strathmore. He is the president of the Local Government Administration Association of Alberta. 

“My family is looking forward to moving to the community. I also look forward to the opportunity to work with the council and the quality team at the County of St. Paul,” said Wallsmith in the release. 

“I have long appreciated Sheila Kitz’s work as CAO and viewed the county as being trail blazers with respect to municipal processes, policies, and systems. I hope to continue and build on the Strategic Plan and Council’s vision for the County.”