January 18th, 2023
Bruderheim says farewell to Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
February will bring significant change for the Town of Bruderheim, as Council and staff say a fond farewell to long-time CAO, Patty Podoborozny, effective February 3rd. “When Patty started with us seven years ago, we knew we had a great leader on our hands,” comments Bruderheim Mayor, Karl Hauch. “And she proved us right. She’s been instrumental in setting Bruderheim up for success in so many ways.”
Podoborozny has been offered the position of Chief Administrative Officer at the County of Minburn No. 27, and decided to take it to be closer to family and reduce her commute. “It was a very difficult decision to make” says Podoborozny. “I have a strong connection to the Town of Bruderheim and the people that live, work and play here, but I need to be closer to home in Vegreville for aging parents.”
Patty came to the Town from Strathcona County, where she worked for over 20 years in the Public Works Department, holding various positions from Technical to Supervisor. She studied at NAIT in Surveying Technology and Business Management at the University of Alberta in the National Advanced Certificate in Local Government Administrators Program. In her seven years as CAO, Patty led a vast number of unique and powerful initiatives, including the Community Clinic, Women Rising, the Infinity Business Centre, the Interagency Operations Centre, and support for Resilient Rurals.
“So many initiatives wouldn’t have been possible if it weren’t for Patty’s open mind, her persistence and her ability to access grant funding,” adds Hauch. “That alone has made such a contribution to the Town.” Patty fundraised hard for many amenities and projects, such as the Karol Maschmeyer Arena, the Cosmic Skatepark, the Bruderheim Community Park and the school playground, but her accomplishments didn’t end there. Her background in Public Works resulted in many improvements related to Town assets.
“Patty brought with her a wealth of professional and volunteer experience, which was critical for the Town,” says Hauch. Patty has been on the Board of Directors for the Alberta Public Works Association (APWA) for many years, as President and Emergency Management Coordinator, and sat as President for the Canadian Public Works Association (CPWA).
“I think I’m most proud of our team for bringing in the Community Clinic against all odds, and the advancements we’ve made with infrastructure,” says Podoborozny. For example, all Town infrastructure has been fully digitized with GIS, a rare feat for a community the size of Bruderheim. “I really appreciate Council’s support for my volunteer work, allowing me to go to Ottawa and advocate for various issues with the Canadian Public Works Association, and for Strathcona County for enabling me in this position with the Town.”
“Working with Bruderheim has been an incredible experience. The support from Council, staff and the community has been overwhelming throughout the years,” adds Podoborozny. “It’s been said that our little town punches far outside its weight class and I really believe that. I’m going to miss the people the most.”
“I speak for the Town staff and the rest of Council in saying that Patty will be sorely missed. Her exceptional leadership skills and big heart were a large part of many of the Town’s successes. We thank Patty for all she’s done and wish her all the best.”
And on the same note that the Town says farewell to Patty, the Town welcomes Robert Stephenson as the new Interim CAO, effective February 6th. “Robert joins us from Strathcona County as well,” says Hauch. “We are very grateful for the continued contributions of Strathcona – they have been very supportive neighbours.” A management service agreement between Strathcona County and the Town of Bruderheim has provided the Town with a CAO for many years. “We look forward to working with Robert and seeing his long list of expertise in action. Patty has pledged to provide him with the necessary support, to ease the transition and set him up for a successful term.”
Stephenson has served as Strathcona County’s Strategist in Intergovernmental Affairs, and prior to that, worked for the Alberta Legislative Assembly and the City of Fort Saskatchewan as a Senior Legislative Officer. He holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Commerce, both from the University of Alberta. “I’m excited to work with Bruderheim Council and staff,” comments Stephenson. “It will be important to bring continuity to the role and maintain Bruderheim’s strong relationship with Strathcona County.”
For more information, please contact the Bruderheim Town Office at 780-796-3731.