Dean McKinley, chief administrative officer (CAO) of the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) has resigned from his position effective Friday, Aug. 30. McKinley joined the SCRD as the CAO on Jan. 6, 2020.
In a news release, McKinley said he has thoroughly enjoyed his time serving the board and residents of the Sunshine Coast.
“And serving alongside so many amazing people for the past several years,” he said. “I have enjoyed working closely with the shíshálh Nation, the Town of Gibsons and the District of Sechelt and I value tremendously the strength of the relationships we have forged. I look forward to embracing new opportunities and I would like to thank all of you for this incredible opportunity.”
As reported in Coast Reporter in July, McKinley had been on leave since at least May 17, when the SCRD's chief financial officer, Tina Perreault, was appointed acting CAO and continued to fill both roles. Perreault has served in the SCRD finance department since 2008. Perreault will continue acting in the capacity of CAO until the board can meet and formally address the matter on Sept. 12.
Speaking on behalf of the SCRD board, chair Leonard Lee said its members would like to thank McKinley for the service he has provided over the past 4.5 years. McKinley's time as CAO has spanned several local emergencies including COVID-19 and the drought emergency of 2022.
“And we wish him well in the future,” said Lee, in the press release. “We also want to take this opportunity to thank all SCRD staff for their support and ongoing efforts to provide excellent services to our community. It is truly appreciated.”
It is anticipated the board will look to appoint an interim CAO and then begin the process to fill the position permanently.
