It’s a bedroom community east of Lethbridge. Coaldale is gaining popularity, as people move to the small town to take advantage cheaper housing prices. The town of just over 7000 people is going through it’s biggest growth spurt ever, but a town manager is still yet to be hired.
After what was an exhaustive and extensive hiring process, CAO Larry Davidson was let go on December 23, 2014 . Many of the reasons behind the firing are confidential and it was thoroughly discussed at the council table.
A special meeting was held in early December, and a final vote of 5-2 saw Councillors Jack Van Rijn and Roger Hohm vote against the motion.
This isn’t the first time Coaldale has gone through management and staff transitions drama.
“Transition is never comfortable. Me and my fellow Councillors what nothing but the best for Coaldale,” says Craig
In 2011, former CAO Leo Ludwig’s contract with the town was terminated and the position was replaced by the then-town assistant administrator Bonnie Farries.,
“It’s not unusual if you look at the municipal landscape of Alberta there are many municipalities that have short term CAO’s.”
According to Craig the town of Coaldale is running sufficiently, and for now interim manager Kalen Hastings is filling the needs of the community.
In the meantime, Council continues to discuss a long-term solution.
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