Northern Rockies CAO to retire after 17 years with municipality

FORT NELSON, B.C. — The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality’s (NRRM) chief administrative officer will retire this fall.

A press release from NRRM has revealed Scott Barry has made his intentions to walk away from his post to council following a 17-year career with the municipality.

Since beginning his post in 2009, Barry has played a “pivotal role” in the advancement of organizational priorities, according to the statement.

NRRM Mayor Rob Fraser said he was “saddened” by Barry’s decision, noting his CAO has built a “strong organization” throughout his tenure.

“[Scott’s] vision, knowledge and experience have led the staff and our community through some difficult times,” said Fraser in the statement. “Scott and the management team have been preparing for the retirements in senior management for some time now. I am excited to be part of the new wave of managers coming up through the ranks.

“Their enthusiasm for our community has me confident that the organization will maintain its strong focus on community safety, development and cost-effective services. Thank you Scott for your years of service and dedication to the community and region.” 

First starting in the role of chief building inspector and then quickly progressing to director of public works, Scott began in the role of chief administrative officer in 2017.

Notable was Barry’s work throughout emergency situations – including the 2024 evacuation of Fort Nelson due to wildfires and his building of an asset management program during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Barry will continue to work until the end of October 2026.