2019 will be Bill Rogan’s last as Chief Administrative Officer for the County of Grande Prairie. Rogan announced Monday he will be retiring this year after 24 years with the County and 44 in public service.
He started as the Superintendent of Public Works in April 1995 after 20 years with Alberta Transportation. He has served as CAO since 2001, and says he has mulled over leaving over the past year.
“I thoroughly enjoy my job and the people I work with and the council I work with in particular, so it wasn’t an easy decision but I just felt it was probably time.”
Rogan has nothing but praise for the people who have surrounded him, especially the three reeves he has served with: Roy Borstad, Everett McDonald, and Leanne Beaupre. He says he hopes to wrap things up by June, but has told county council he will stay on until a replacement is hired.
“I think there will be lots of interest in a very well-established county. Strong council, great staff; I’m sure there will be lots of people looking for the opportunity.”
A search firm will be hired to help fill the position. Rogan wants the person chosen to look forward to be prepared for every day to be different.
“Your day never works out as planned, but that’s okay,” he jokes. “You have to be able to make decisions that affect people’s lives, so you want to be cautious but be able to make those decisions in a timely way.”
“Bill has been a strong leader, visionary and a mentor for administration and councillors during his time as CAO,” adds Reeve Beaupre. “He has worked diligently and faithfully for the County, and we wish him the best in his retirement.”
Rogan won’t be going far. He plans to keep living in the City of Prairie and is looking forward to spending more time with his family.
