Kaslo’s new CAO “couldn’t be happier”
Robert Baker, Kaslo’s latest Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), is “absolutely enjoying” his new role.
“It was a seamless transition and a perfect fit,” he told the Valley Voice.
Baker began his CAO position on March 18.
“I feel totally comfortable with all the staff I’ve started to work with, and all the people in the community, the user groups that I’ve been introduced to, as well as the other community organizations,” he said. “It’s an indication that it was the right move.”
Baker spent his first weekend in Kaslo going shop to shop downtown, meeting business owners, who he said were all pleasant and welcoming. Every single person he’s spoken to, he said, has further reinforced how glad he is to be in Kaslo.
Before making the move to Kaslo, Baker served as the City of Trail’s Deputy Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture. Since 2010, he managed the City’s facilities and infrastructure, including the aquatic centre and the Trail Memorial Centre, home of the Smoke Eaters hockey team. He also managed the Trail Regional Airport for six years.
“It was a fantastic position,” he said. “It was what brought me from the Lower Mainland to the Kootenays.”
In the Lower Mainland, Baker helped with the opening of the Langley Events Centre in 2009, the Vancouver Giants’ home arena.
“As I moved up in my career and gained experience and capacity, the next logical step was to move into a CAO role,” he said.
As CAO, Baker reports directly to council and oversees the business affairs of Kaslo and its employees. He works to ensure that municipal services are delivered efficiently and effectively.
“My goals are reflective of council’s strategic priorities,” he said. “I am getting to know council as people and as a group, getting a deeper sense for what they would like to do with the remaining two-and-a-half years of their term.”
Linda Tynan, who served as interim CAO from January until Baker was hired, continues on as chief financial officer (CFO) until May 15, giving Baker time to settle in. When Tynan leaves, Baker will also take on the role of CFO.
Baker explored other job opportunities around BC, but just couldn’t bear to leave the Kootenays.
“And now that I’m at the north end of Kootenay Lake, it’s paradise,” he said. “Instead of driving three hours, it will be a nice one-hour drive to get to the north end and enjoy what the Kootenays really has to offer.”
Baker is a family man. Hockey with his sons, making his daughter laugh, and camping in the summertime all fill his cup when he’s not at work.
“I couldn’t be happier,” he said.
Rachael Lesosky, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Valley Voice
