The Municipality of Meaford has announced that Shawn Everitt has been appointed as the municipality’s permanent Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), effective immediately. Everitt served as Meaford’s Interim CAO on a temporary, two-year contract since April 8, 2025.
“Shawn has demonstrated steady leadership, strong operational knowledge, and a deep commitment to public service throughout his time with us,” said Mayor Ross Kentner. “Council appreciates the support of staff over the past months as we recruited CAO Everitt. He has a wealth of experience in this leadership role and is well-known and respected by his peers in Grey County. Council is confident that his experience and collaborative approach will continue to move our community forward.”
Everitt was hired four months after the departure of CAO Kymm Buckham, who had served in the position for just six months.
At the Town of the Blue Mountains, Everitt had served for three decades, most recently as CAO since 2017, first as interim CAO until 2019 when the position became permanent.
“Everitt brings more than 30 years of municipal experience from the Town of The Blue Mountains, where he held leadership roles including Manager of the Community Centre, Director of Community Services, and, most recently, CAO. His extensive background in municipal operations, strategic planning, and community engagement has supported Meaford through key priorities over the past several months,” said the municipality in the announcement of Everitt’s permanent apppointment.
“I am honoured and excited to be given the opportunity to take on the role of Chief Administrative Officer for the long term,” said Everitt. “My first eight months with this organization as Interim CAO have been such a refreshing and positive experience. Having the opportunity to work with such a devoted and committed Council and staff, and seeing the progress we have made as a team, made this decision an easy one. I want to thank Mayor Kentner and members of Council, staff, and the members of the community, especially those I have had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with to discuss their thoughts, opinions, concerns, and issues. I am grateful for the opportunity to influence change and to support this growing community moving forward.”
The municipality noted that as CAO, “Everitt will continue to oversee municipal operations, support staff, and work closely with Council to implement strategic initiatives, enhance customer service, and ensure the efficient delivery of programs and services across the community.”
