The Distrcit of Lantzville has a new face filling the role of chief administrative officer, serving on an interim basis until a permanent CAO can be found.
"I think it's a good opportunity to try to help Lantzville council and staff move the organization forward," said Sundance Topham, speaking with the News Bulletin.
Topham started his professional career as a senior communications advisor with the B.C. Pension Corporation from 2005-06, before moving to the District of Wells where he worked as deputy CAO until 2011, followed by a nine-month term as the CAO. From there, he went on to work as CAO with the Village of Cumberland from 2011-19, then CAO with the University Neighbourhoods Association until November 2023. Since June he has been working part-time as administrator for the Deep Bay Improvement District.
Topham will be taking the role from Glenn Morphy, who has been filling the role of acting CAO, and is expected to revert to the director of public works.
"I've worked in local government for a while, and I took some time off and I'm looking to get back into local government and wanted to work in the community that was close, something on the Island here. I've met the mayor before when I worked in Cumberland, so I had a little familiarity."
Topham said he anticipates remaining in the role the next couple of months, "then it will be up to council to determine next steps."
"I'm here to help and it's [council's] prerogative how the organization moves forward."
According to a press release from the district, Topham will be working part time until Nov. 18, where he will transition to full-time.
