By Treena Mielke
A Rimbey businessman and former mayor has been hired as manager of the Central Alberta Economic Partnership.
Dale Barr is to assume the position of manager immediately, overseeing CAEP’s overall operations and reporting to the 15-member board of directors, a press release from CAEP administration states.
Barr is pleased to be selected for the job.
“It is certainly something I enjoy doing. I am quite excited about this new position and believe they (CAEP) are in a great position to grow. My recent experience working in numerous Alberta municipalities as a trainer for the Economic Developers Alberta (EDA) enhances the abilities I will utilize in my new role with CAEP,” he added in the press release.
Harvey Walsh, CAEP’s vice-chairman and chairman of the selection committee, said Barr’s experience as chairman and committee member over the last six years will serve him well as manager.
“He will be able to hit the ground running on behalf of CAEO’s 42-member communities and 14 associate members,” he said.
Barr has more than 30 years of business experience, as well as municipal and economic development training experience on how to achieve economic growing.
Along with his formal economic development and business training, Barr participated in the implementation of economic development initiatives with agencies, government and other regional economic development alliances in Alberta.
Walsh pleased with the number of qualified candidates who applied for the position. “It speaks highly of the economic development capacity available in the region.”
CAEP operations manager Lorna Lansard will continue with the organization in an administrative role. Dawna Allard, regional manager south central for Alberta Finance and Enterprise will continue to provide advisory support to CAEP.
Barr lives in Rimbey with his wife and three children, and is an active sportsman, community volunteer and chamber member.