MOUNT PEARL, N.L. — Mount Pearl has a new top bureaucrat.
Dana Spurrell has been appointed as the city’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) effective Wednesday, Feb. 10.
The position has been vacant for many months since a nasty rift between the city and former CAO Steve Kent.
Related
- Steve Kent resigns as Mount Pearl’s top bureaucrat, plans to sue city
- Steve Kent investigation still active, date of resolution unknown
Spurrell’s appointment was made official following a unanimous vote by city council in Tuesday’s public council meeting.
“I look forward to working with council, and most importantly, the staff in Mount Pearl, as we focus on the city’s future,” Spurrell said.
“I’m excited to lead the organization forward, to support, plan and develop the many opportunities that await.”
Spurrell brings 25 years of public service experience to the position and has worked in various departments and roles within provincial government at an executive level — most recently, as assistant deputy minister of the Department of Immigration, Workforce Development and Labour.
“We went through interviews with all of our candidates and she shone as a true leader of the public service,” Mayor Dave Aker told The Telegram. “I believe she will be a good team leader … Dana brings a real understanding of people.”
Spurrell fills the position that was left vacant in October 2019, when Kent quit.
Kent was the subject of a harassment investigation. The allegations were about his workplace conduct, including reports he mocked subordinates in front of other staff, berated workers verbally and made comments about job security that were perceived to be intimidating.
He had initially been put on leave, but resigned in June 2020 just before council was about to vote on a motion to dismiss him. Before the vote, however, Kent sued the city for constructive dismissal and breach of privacy, as staff reportedly read his Facebook messages.
Not long after, Mount Pearl countersued Kent for damages, including compensation for benefits and salary paid to him and the cost of the investigation.
The case is still before the courts.
“The past 18 months has been very stressful for many of us at the city,” Aker said. “But despite the challenges, we’re dedicated to the city and we know our employees are dedicated, and we seek out leadership that will lead us into the future.
"... we are closing some previous chapters here and we’re moving on." — Dave Aker
“Frankly, we are closing some previous chapters here and we’re moving on … We’re continuing on the path to move the city forward.”
In Spurrell’s role as CAO, she will spearhead the senior leadership team, providing oversight, support and guidance on the delivery of all city services. Supporting the mayor and council, she will co-ordinate, direct and make recommendations to council regarding the assessment, definition and review of city policy.
As the senior administrative leader, she will provide leadership, coaching and guidance to city staff, and represent the city with residents, government, unions, the business community and the public.
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