Another change in RDNO staff

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star  Published: December 04, 2011 1:00 AM 
The revolving door continues at the Regional District of North Okanagan.  Christy Malden is leaving as legislative services co-ordinator, making her the fourth high-level departure of staff since the spring. “It’s just a natural progression with people when opportunities arise,” said director Rick Fairbairn. “It’s not a reflection of anything happening with the regional district.”  Besides Malden, administrator Greg Betts retired in May while engineering general manager Arnold Badke and Al McNiven, parks and recreation general manager, retired in September.  Malden leaves Jan. 6 for new duties with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen.  “I just wanted to get back home,” she said of her roots in Penticton.  Malden admits it’s difficult to leave RDNO and her position as legislative services co-ordinator.  “I have loved it there. It’s been an amazing job and the people are great,” she said. Malden has been with RDNO for five years. “She’s a great person and she will be missed,” said Trafford Hall, administrator. At least one of the current vacancies has been filled. Dale McTaggart has been hired as general manager of engineering and he begins Jan. 9. “He comes well regarded and with good experience,” said Hall. McTaggart will oversee a number of services including noxious weeds, water utilities at Grindrod, Whitevale, Mabel Lake and Silver Star, transit, drainage and street lighting. But a major focus will be the Greater Vernon water system and the upcoming review of the master water plan.  “We have confidence that Dale has the experience necessary,” said Hall. RDNO still hasn’t hired a new parks, recreation and culture general administrator.  “We have a few good applicants,” said Hall, who  became administrator in May.