At the LGMA, we take pride in recognizing the outstanding achievements of our members within BC local government. This week, we're excited to feature Jon Wilsgard, Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Golden and a dedicated supporter of the LGMA. Jon currently serves as the Chapter Director for our Rocky Mountain Chapter and will be retiring at the end of this year, capping off a 38-year career in public service. In celebration of his contributions to the board and his years of service to the BC local government sector, we’ve invited Jon to share his story with us. 

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background? 

A: After switching majors three times I finally graduated from the University of Victoria with a fun but forgettable degree in geography and resource management. That was my intro to spending 16 years working for BC Parks in Northwestern BC, and the BC Forest Service in recreation management in Golden. I then spent four years as the town of Golden’s Economic Development Officer before I was directly offered the Corporate Officer role by the CAO in 2007. Six years later, I was promoted by Council to CAO where I’ve hung my hat for the last 12 years. 

Q: Can you describe your role and title? 

A: Much like any other CAO really. As the longest serving management employee, and with 30 years in the community, my experience, contacts, and memory of corporate and community events may have helped us to navigate many an issue and opportunity. I would otherwise strongly characterize my role as placing and keeping people far smarter than me in corporate management, giving them resources and guidance, and building the confidence they need to be successful and fulfilled in their roles.  

Q: How long have you been in local government? 

A: It will be 18 years on December 31, upon which I will officially retire, wrapping up nearly 38 years in the public service. 

Q: How long have you been an LGMA member?

A: Since day one at the Town of Golden. My hiring CAO was a huge believer in the organization and insisted I embrace and support it. I don’t think I’ve missed more than one LGMA Annual Conference in 18 years.

Q: What are some key milestones in your professional journey?

A: One milestone is being promoted without debate, and at first unknowingly, to CAO by Council. This was both uplifting and frightening. Of course, other milestones include major capital projects, community partnership initiatives, and establishing a growing network of incredibly competent colleagues in the LGMA spectrum. They have saved my professional keister, given me more laughs, and provided confidence more times than I can count – you all know who you are. Completing many PADMs, I think every MATI® course offered as of 2019, and discovering lasting friendships and revelations while there. After a few years, having colleagues actually call me for advice! Being a part of the LGMA board, and being perpetually astounded with its relevance, professionalism, and scope of services to us.

Q: How has being an LGMA member benefited your professional development?

A: Immensely. Were it not for the LGMA and its positive influence on my professional life, I would likely not be as educated, connected, or even in my current position. It has given me the skills, motivation, and confidence to stay within the sector, and influence others in this noblest of professions; working in the public service. 

Q: What do you value most about being an LGMA member?

A: Once one understands the scope and depth of the organization, the people that propel it, the services, the advocacy, the support, and the influence it provides, it’s the access to these things that I value most, and the knowledge that we have one of the greatest professional support organizations at our backs. 

Q: What have you learned from your experiences that you believe would benefit others in your position? 

A: You must make decisions. People will respect your role in making a timely and informed decision over whether it was perceived as right or wrong. Empower your people to give them confidence, competence, and breathing room. Back them up. Yes, we have been coined as leaders in the shadows, but at this level of authority, having active community connections and a positive attitude will bloom your community. Accept human nature as often myopic, unbalanced, and based on life’s experience. Use this lens when interpreting discourse, demands, and trends in the public sphere that may affect you and your decisions. Care about your community. It will prolong your career and influence the people that surround you.

Q: What advice might you give to a young person entering the local government field?

A: Understand that you are entering one of society’s most underappreciated, under-promoted, critically necessary, and fulfilling occupations. It’s a career that will be fairly paid, provides unlimited opportunities, and is backstopped by an unrivalled professional organization to help you grow a network of colleagues ready to help you.

Q: What is one fun fact about yourself that you would like to share with our members?

A: I grew up on a very rural acreage in a one-room log cabin with my parents in northern BC with no electricity or running water. The school bus stop was 2.5 km through the woods which I skied to and from in the winters. Ah, those expat-back-to-the-land-parents of the 70’s!