A shocker tonight (Monday) from city hall.
City CAO Keith Robicheau is out, according to a news release from Mayor Al McDonald.
"The Mayor and Council of the City of North Bay confirm that Keith Robicheau is no longer the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of North Bay.," says the release issued at 10:30 p.m.
“We thank Keith for the contributions he has made during his term with the City and wish him all the best in his future endeavours” said McDonald.
Two years ago when Robicheau was hired, McDonald said."We wanted to take as long as necessary to find the right person," adding it was a long process that the council didn't want to rush. Over 125 candidates applied and it took seven months to complete the search.
“This is a very important leadership role within the City and we are delighted to add an individual with the breadth of experience Mr. Robicheau has to our team,” said the Mayor at the time.
Keith Robicheau began in his role with the City in February 2017.
See: City names new CAO
The release does not say if Robicheau quit or was forced out. Sources tell BayToday Robicheau was fired.
Robicheau told Cogego TV, "It was a privilege to work with the dedicated and capable management team staff at the City for the past years. I wish the very best for the City of North Bay in the future."
David Euler, the City’s current Managing Director Engineering, Environmental Service and Works has been appointed as Interim Chief Administrative Officer effective immediately. McDonald added. “We are eager to begin working with David and his senior management team toward our goal to grow our City.”
Robicheau replaced former CAO Jerry Knox, who has been the centre of controversy recently.
See: City ordered to disclose Confidential Employment Agreement for phantom 'Corporate Advisor'
Last month, Ontario's Information and Privacy Commissioner ordered the City of North Bay to disclose the Confidential Employment Agreement it signed with its former 'Corporate Advisor.' McDonald has said in the past he played no role in the Knox affair and has refused comment, calling it a "personnel matter."
Ontario's Sunshine List revealed Jerry Knox was paid more than $200,000 per year for two years after he retired, to act as Corporate Advisor to the city.
See: Plenty of area employees on provincial Sunshine List...one big surprise!
Attempts to reach Mayor McDonald by BayToday Monday evening were unsuccessful, and no reply had been received by 9 a.m. Tuesday morning.
