City honours City Manager's retirement

September 11, 2020

After a 42-year career in local government, and 13 years as the City Manager for the City of Fort St. John, Dianne Hunter’s final day is today, September 11, 2020.

Dianne’s career started in 1978 and spanned two provinces, five municipalities and one regional district. Throughout her career, she has held various positions in planning, human resources and administration before moving into the City Manager role.

As the City of Fort St. John’s longest-serving City Manager, Dianne oversaw several major initiatives and projects to enhance the community:

  • Construction of the Pomeroy Sport Centre, new Fire Hall, and replacement RCMP Detachment
  • Multiple Master Plans, including the Downtown Action Plan and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and two Official Community Plan updates
  • Community Measures Agreement regarding Site C with BC Hydro and the Peace River Agreement

In addition to serving Council locally, Dianne contributions are felt provincially, nationally and globally, with her involvement in several professional organizations and international programs; including:

  • President of the West Kootenay and North Central Municipal Officer’s Association
  • BC Municipal Officers’ Association - Executive Member
  • An active member of the Local Government Association of BC and International Institute of City Management Association
  • Working with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Sustainable and Inclusive Communities in Latin America (CISAL) program to support women in leadership and communities in Peru

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities recognized Dianne in 2018 for her outstanding work in Peru with the International Award of Excellence. This award joins recognition from the Province of British Columbia with the Certificate of Distinguished Membership Award and the Province of Alberta the Provincial Government Recognition Award for her “outstanding dedication and commitment” to local government.

“It’s easy to be a City Manager in a community that rolls steadily along each day, but in a vibrant, growing community located in a rich resource region like Fort St John, you need to be nimble and to think globally at all times.  I remember the day we hired Dianne, and I can see that we have come a long way.  We hope she gets to put her feet up and spend more time on the things she loves to do,“ stated Mayor Lori Ackerman.

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Media Contact:
Ryan Harvey
Communications Coordinator
250 794 3313