Lethbridge to Hire New City Manager Following Craig Dalton Resignation – Lethbridge | The Canadian News

The City of Lethbridge announced the resignation of city ​​manager craig dalton on Tuesday, citing a “new opportunity” as the reason for his departure.

Dalton said he couldn’t elaborate on why he’s leaving or what the new opportunity is, but doing so has left him with “mixed emotions.”

“It’s just a life decision, those decisions that we all make from time to time,” he said.

Dalton was Lethbridge’s third city manager in less than four years.

Bramwell Strain took office in August 2018, but resigned less than a year and a half later. Meanwhile, between Strain’s departure and Dalton’s addition in May 2020, Jody Meli filled that position temporarily.

Mayor Blaine Hyggen said retention in recent years has been a “challenge,” but he is confident the city will find the right option as the council begins planning to hire a new city manager.

He praised Dalton’s ability to lead during the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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“We respect those decisions,” Hyggen said Wednesday. “At the end of the day, city manager is just one position in the organization. We have an extremely competent senior management team.

“It’s something that (probably) as a council we would like to have in the longer term, but you know what? Having new blood is not always something terrible, it brings different and fresh ideas”.

Dalton’s final day has yet to be determined, but it is anticipated to be in March to allow for a smooth transition for the new hire.

“I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of this organization, to meet and work with some outstanding people,” Dalton said.