Brock welcomes new CAO, while saying goodbye to interim CAO

DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard

BROCK: Brock Township councillors and staff said goodbye to their acting Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Ralph Walton, while welcoming new CAO Dean Hustwick, at a meeting on Monday, November 2nd.

The meeting was a sombre occasion for those working for the township, being the last meeting Mr. Walton would serve as acting CAO. “I know our staff, our department heads: you are truly going to be missed. The guidance you have provided to us is second to none, it is guidance we have never had in the past, and [it is the kind] we do hope to have in the future,” Mayor Debbie Bath-Hadden said, to Mr. Walton.

Mr. Walton was named the township’s acting CAO after former CAO Robert Lamb left the township in late June to pursue other opportunities. “We cannot thank you enough for the guidance, support, perseverance and professionalism you brought. You offered to come to Brock as acting CAO, not knowing what you were walking into. What an amazing, interesting past six months it has been. The leadership and support you have provided is something we have been lacking. It is remarkable how well you have been able to wear two hats, as Brock’s acting CAO and still maintaining the role as Regional Clerk,” Brock Township clerk Becky Jamieson said to the departing interim CAO.

Mr. Walton provided his thoughts on departing the township.

“It was the greatest honour to come up here, and in a very short time, I’ve become very fond of the township, and the staff, and the council. I take away with me very fond memories,” he said.

The meeting was also an opportunity for Mr. Hustwick to introduce himself.

“I think Mr. Walton has laid the foundation and is leaving very large shoes to fill, which I am grateful for. I’m thrilled with being able to work with this council. From what I’ve heard, and what I’ve already seen, there’s an incredible staff here. I think this is an amazing community. I think we’re going to be able to do a lot of great things together,” Mr. Hustwick said.

Mayor Bath-Hadden said Mr. Hustwick brings “a vision we have not seen in Brock before, a different way of looking at [municipal business].” The Township had announced the hiring of Mr. Hustwick in late September.

https://www.townshipofbrock.ca/en/index.aspx