Newmarket CAO Bob Shelton announces retirement after 40 years of service

Town will undertake executive search to fill position

Yorkregion.com
August 28, 2018
Teresa Latchford

Newmarket’s chief administrative officer Bob Shelton has announced he will retire in November.

Shelton began his career with the Town of Newmarket in 1977, holding various positions until he became the CAO in 2002.

“I have had the honour and privilege of working at the Town of Newmarket for more than 40 years in various roles and it has been an incredible journey helping to fulfill our vision of making Newmarket even better,” Shelton said. “As both a staff member and a resident of Newmarket, I have watched our community grow and change and it has been so rewarding to be a part of that transformation.”

He is also thankful to the many colleagues, council and community members he has had the pleasure of working with throughout the years.

Town of Newmarket buys Mulock estate for $24M to create 'Central Park'
Shelton has been instrumental in a number of the key decisions that have led to the town’s successes and the community being recognized as one of the best places to live in Canada.

Some of Shelton’s career highlights include the acquisition of the Mulock estate property to create a Central Park-inspired greenspace, the revitalization of downtown and the creation of Riverwalk Commons, the LEED silver certified operations centre, opening of the Magna Centre, development of Canada’s first LEED platinum certified subdivision, public art along the Tom Taylor Trail and leading through a culture of collaboration including the creation of the N6 municipalities committee.

He guided the first strategic plan, core values, official, secondary and cultural master plans as well as the economic development strategy.

“On behalf of council, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Bob for his strong leadership, mentorship and vision throughout his 40-plus-year career with the Town of Newmarket,” Mayor Tony Van Bynen said. “He has been instrumental in shaping the Newmarket that we all know and love, creating a framework for future success.”

Van Bynen also added that Shelton’s legacy will continue long after his retirement on Nov. 30 as many accomplishments have left a positive impact on the community that will not be forgotten.

The town has confirmed it will be undertaking an executive search to fill the position.