The District of Sicamous will move forward under the guidance of new chief administrative officer (CAO) Dean Strachan, who brings a wealth of experience in local government.

Strachan, who will start with the district on Feb. 10, was most recently the manager of community planning and development with Kelowna, but also has 22 years of similar experience in Vernon, Revelstoke and Summerland. He's been a community planner, manager, director, senior leader and approving officer for communities of all sizes. 

"I was drawn to the District of Sicamous by the opportunity to work with a community that has shown significant potential for growth and development," Strachan said in a media release. "Working in a larger community for the past seven years has given me some great experience, however, I do miss the direct connection that happens in smaller communities."

Mayor Colleen Anderson added that the district is looking forward to working with Strachan.

"We look forward to welcoming Dean Strachan," she said. "He brings great experience that will definitely benefit our community, and we all look forward to working with him."

Current CAO Darrell Garceau, who started in an interim role in July 2024 before being permanently appointed in October, will continue to provide support until March to ensure a smooth transition. 

"Working for the district these past months has been a blessing, and I regret having to leave 91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ“ it was a difficult decision," Garceau said in the release. "I have loved every moment working with staff and council. This. community is amazing."

Anderson thanked him for "a great job and being a great support for our staff, council and community," and wished he and his family "the very best in the future."