Consulting group, Janet Soles and Associates conducted a nation-wide search, reaching out to over 250 people across Canada, and interviewed over 40 people for the role. The search committee conducted first round interviews in April, and then in May, City Council participated in second round interviews.

“I have had the opportunity over the last 10 months to lead the organization as Interim City Manager and am incredibly grateful to Council and the City Manager Recruitment Committee for giving me the opportunity to continue to lead our organization on a more permanent basis, providing more stability and consistency for our community and our staff” said Interim City Manager, Tara Lodewyk. “I have a strong and supportive administrative team in addition to the ten years of leadership experience, solid community relationships and knowledge. I love this city, I love our people, and look forward to leading us through what will no doubt be a challenging, but promising, future.”

A City Manager is the head of administration, leads the organization and provides the link between City Council and other levels of government, the community, and administration. Tara Lodewyk has been with The City since 2010 and has held positions such as Manager of Planning Services and General Manager / Deputy City Manager of Development and Protective Services.

Lodewyk has lived in Red Deer since 2000, originally from Melville, Saskatchewan, with her husband and two children. Tara is active in the community and has a passion for people, for our city, and building strong relationships.

“As an organization, we have been through so much change over the past few years. City staff are our number one asset, from every level and department, and having the right people in the right places is of utmost importance – with none more important than the leader of our organization,” said Mayor Ken Johnston. “Red Deer’s tradition of strong city leadership will continue with the appointment of Tara Lodewyk. Her dedication to this city and this organization, along with her background in management and planning, are important building blocks for the future of our vibrant city. On behalf of City Council, congratulations Tara on this appointment.”

The final selection of the City Manager was made by City Council at today’s Special City Council meeting with a unanimous vote. Commencement date for Lodewyk as City Manager is July 1, 2022.