🚀 Exciting news for #Bowden! Arno Glover is our new CAO, ensuring seamless transitions and future growth. 🏘️🌟 Big projects ahead, and we're ready! 💪 #Olds #Alberta
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Bowden Welcomes New CAO Arno Glover: The Mayor’s Top Pick
Bowden’s Seamless Transition
In a smooth and strategic move, Bowden’s Mayor Robb Stuart announced Arno Glover as the new chief administrative officer (CAO) following Rudy Friesen’s departure. With Glover’s extensive knowledge of the town’s upcoming projects, his promotion was a clear and logical decision.
A Natural Successor
Arno Glover, formerly the town’s legislative and municipal services officer, steps into the role of CAO with seven years of dedicated service to Bowden. His familiarity with the town’s inner workings and planned projects made him the ideal candidate to succeed Rudy Friesen, who left on July 5 to become the CAO of Brazeau County.
“We considered a few options, including hiring a headhunter to find a replacement,” Mayor Stuart shared. “But with Arno’s extensive firsthand knowledge and experience, the decision was straightforward. His understanding of our projects and his attention to detail are phenomenal.”
Major Projects on the Horizon
Bowden has several significant initiatives lined up, making Glover’s immediate appointment crucial. One of the most critical projects involves flushing and examining about 10 percent of the town’s sewer lines using cameras, focusing mainly on the oldest sections. “Some of these lines are over 40 years old,” Stuart explained. “Last year, we had to replace about 100 meters under Highway 2A, which had been in place for around 50 years.”
Had a new CAO been brought in from outside, it would have taken months for them to get up to speed with these projects. Glover’s promotion ensures continuity and efficiency, vital for the timely completion of these essential tasks.
Steady Leadership Amidst Change
Rudy Friesen’s two-year tenure as CAO was marked by significant contributions, following his previous role in Cremona. Although his departure was unexpected, it reflects a broader trend in municipal administration. “It’s common now for CAOs to move on to larger communities after two to four years,” Stuart noted. “This rapid turnover is a sign of the times.”
Despite these changes, Mayor Stuart remains confident in Bowden’s leadership. Having witnessed the appointment of seven different CAOs over his 20 years on the council, he recognizes the importance of having someone like Glover, who brings stability and in-depth knowledge to the role.
Community Projects and Improvements
Bowden recently saw the repaving of 19 kilometers of Highway 2A, from the north end of town to the south end of Olds. This project, completed last month, was a welcome surprise for Mayor Stuart. “The highway wasn’t in terrible shape, so it was a bit unexpected,” he admitted. Although he had hoped for wider shoulders, he appreciates the timely completion.
Mayor Stuart also expressed gratitude for the workers pausing their activities during the annual Bowden Daze Rodeo, held from July 12-14. “It was a considerate gesture,” he said. “Now, if only we could get the town of Olds’ traffic lights fixed. I had to stop at all five the other day.”
Looking Ahead
With Glover at the helm, Bowden is poised for continued progress and development. His comprehensive understanding of the town’s needs and ongoing projects ensures that Bowden will navigate future challenges effectively. The community can look forward to steady leadership and well-executed initiatives under Glover’s guidance.
As Bowden moves forward, the seamless transition in leadership serves as a testament to the town’s commitment to its residents and the efficient management of its resources. With major projects on the horizon and a capable CAO in place, Bowden is well-equipped for a prosperous future.