Halifax’s chief administrative officer has announced plans to retire.
The move from Cathie O’Toole comes shy of three years in the role, which she assumed in January 2023, but more than 25 years of public service.
In a statement, HRM said she will not step away fully until October and will assist the mayor and municipality in finding a replacement.
“It has been an honour to serve both the municipality and Halifax Water, and I take pride in the projects and initiatives I have had the privilege of working on and leading,” said Ms. O’Toole.
The news of her retirement comes amid chatter about Mayor Andy Fillmore and strong mayor powers.
The mayor would have the authority to hire or fire staff, veto council decisions, and fast-track certain proposals with limited council support.
Fillmore told our newsroom that the CAO, an unelected official, holds the majority of power when it comes to making municipal decisions.
“That position decides the budget that’s going to be presented to council. It allocates staff resources, it sets the agenda for the municipality, but it is not accountable to the electorate,” said Fillmore.
He said, the “fundamental change” in strong mayor powers, would be to get the accountability back into the hands of the person who was elected by 16 districts across HRM.
“That strengthens our democracy, that sharpens the focus and productivity of the public service, and it allows councillors to focus more effectively on their districts,” says Fillmore.
“It would just be better all around.”
Halifax Regional Council is in session, Thursday, to discuss strong mayor powers.
A motion will be tabled by Councillor Sam Austin for HRM to send a letter to the province requesting a say on the matter.
In the coming weeks more details on O’Toole’s retirement will be shared.
