Rocky View County (RVC) announced Tuesday the hiring of Reegan McCullough as the newest Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
McCullough’s appointment was officially endorsed by council during their September 10 Council meeting, a move the County said is a “significant step forward in the County’s ongoing commitment to effective governance and community-driven progress.”
“Council would like to welcome Mr. McCullough to Rocky View County," said Reeve Crystal Kissel. "After a thorough selection process, it was apparent that Mr. McCullough’s vision and experience align perfectly with our strategic goals. His leadership will be crucial as we continue to enhance our services, manage growth responsibly, and maintain the high quality of life our residents have grown to expect. Under his guidance, I am confident Rocky View County will continue to thrive while preserving the unique character that makes our region special.”
In a press release, the County wrote that McCullough expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating: "I am deeply honoured to serve as CAO of Rocky View County. This is a vibrant community with a rich history and promising future. I look forward to working closely with Council, staff, and residents to build on the County’s strong foundations. My immediate focus will be on strengthening our relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring fiscal sustainability, and implementing innovative approaches to manage growth while preserving the rural character that defines Rocky View County.”
McCullough will officially assume the role as the County’s top administrator on October 1, taking over from interim CAO Byron Riemann, who has been functioning as RVC’s administrative head since late May.
RVC has had a difficult time retaining a permanent CAO over the last few years. Five men have served as CAO since 2019– three of them, Riemann, executive director of the County’s corporate services Kent Robinson, and Rick McDonald, a two-time acting CAO– have all filed the role on an interim basis.
Al Hoggan, who was hired as RVC CAO in 2019, lasted two years as CAO before accepting a similar role with the Municipal District of Bonnyville in 2021. Hoggan’s full-time replacement, Dorian Wandzura, took over in the Spring of 2022 and was the CAO until August 2023 when his contract was terminated by a council vote.
However, with this new hire, council believes they have found someone who can focus the County on “sustainable development, enhanced services, and strong government.”
“Mr. Reegan McCullough brings a distinguished background in both public and private sector management, having previously served as the CAO of Sturgeon County and CEO of the Niagara Parks Commission,” reads a release authored by RVC. “His experience in rural development, infrastructure management, and strategic planning positions him well to address the unique opportunities and challenges facing Rocky View County.”
“Mr. McCullough has been recognized for his leadership in developing forward-thinking policies and enhancing public services, reinforcing his commitment to excellence in public administration,” the County said.
