RD County Mayor to move Council forward with Governance Review Implementation Plan

At the February 20, council meeting, Red Deer County Council endorsed the Governance Review Implementation Plan that was conducted by George B. Cuff & Associates. The implementation plan aims to address all recommendations outlined in the governance audit, with the overall goal of re-establishing respectful dialogue both in and outside Council Chambers and the County Office.

“During my 19-year tenure with the County, the communications between council and administration has historically been respectful,” stated Mayor Wood. “Mr. Cuff’s report provides clear direction and the necessary tools to help council restore and maintain successful relationships moving forward.”

“This is an organization which has had fairly consistent (political/administrative) leadership for a considerable period of time, more than many other rural (and urban) Alberta municipalities,” noted Mr. Cuff in the executive summary of the report.

Recommendations of the Audit include:
• Implementation plan;
• Review of Council protocol/ Code of Conduct;
• Specific assistance to the Mayor;
• Approach to Governance;
• Council Members’ Approach to Itself and its Administration;
• Meeting procedures;
• Key issues (on hold due to forensic audit);
• Review of Chief Administrative Officer Bylaw/ Administration;
• Restructure of Council Orientation.

The public can access both the Executive Summary and the full Governance Review here.

Background:
On September 5, 2023 Council directed that a Governance Review be conducted. Following this, Council contracted George Cuff, George B. Cuff & Associates Ltd. to conduct a Governance Review. A Governance Review was conducted between September 23, 2023 and February 5, 2024. George B. Cuff & Associated Ltd. prepared a report of findings and recommendations.

The report was provided to Council and to management along with the opportunity to speak to Mr. Cuff regarding his recommendations and to ask questions. At the February 6, 2024 Council meeting, Red Deer County Council endorsed the Governance Review conducted by George B. Cuff & Associates. Council also directed that both the Executive Summary and the full Governance Review be publicly released.