Jim Godfrey will start work Nov. 4 as the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s new administrator. Godfrey, who has been administrator for the Township of Langley since 1983, was described as the "apex" of the list of candidates for the job by Grant Smith, the Price Waterhouse representative who led the search for a new administrator. But Smith doubted Godfrey would be available. Acting mayor Max Kirkpatrick said Godfrey’s references are glowing. He is one of only two administrators that sit on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities board. He is sought out by local government associations for workshops and is described as an organizer, team leader and facilitator. "I think we hit the jackpot," Kirkpatrick said. Parks and Recreation Director Bill Barratt and Director of Public Works John Nelson have filled in as acting administrators this year. Former administrator Peter Kent took a medical leave of absence last December and later resigned the position. Kent’s absence and the resignation of former Bylaw Superintendent Calvin Logue sparked a review of municipal procedures by Urban Systems consultants. Among the recommendations by Urban Systems was that because of the pressures on the administrator the position be covered by a limited-term, personal services contract. Godfrey has signed a five-year contract with the municipality. Godfrey will be responsible for hiring a human resources officer for the municipality, a position recommended by Urban Systems. He will also be working with a rookie mayor and a new council shortly after he assumes his new job.
