Ritchot CAO resigns, looking for new beginnings

Longtime Ritchot CAO Mitch Duval is leaving his post after years in municipal affairs.

“It’s time. I’m not going to lie. It’s one of those things where I’m not going to regret the decision, but It’s time to move on. I’ve committed 29 years to this and with no regrets whatsoever, it’s been fantastic. But it’s just a matter of time now to look at other ventures that life may hold,” he said.

Prior to spending 10 years with the RM of Ritchot, Duval was a municipal services officer with the province and he spent 16 years working for the RM of Montcalm. He said he’s going to take about five months off and then in late September early October he’s going to look at what his options are for employment.

Some of the highlights during his time in Ritchot have included expansion of the ring dike in St Adolphe, construction of the fire hall in Ste Agathe, and the development of housing and industry in Grande Pointe.

“We’re just starting to lay down the groundwork for other developments for Ile des Chenes and hopefully we can do something quickly here with Ste Agathe as well. There are a lot of projects and a lot of good that has moved forward. I can’t take the full credit. I’ve had a good number of teams and very helpful helpers along the way so I’m not taking credit all by myself. I had great teams to work with,” said Duval.

Some of the challenges Duval faced was getting used to a new council in 2016 and flooding. He said what he’ll miss the most about working in Ritchot was the people.

“Missing the people and the staff and council. The team players that I’ve been able to work with not only locally but at provincial and federal levels. That cohort of workers. The people, it takes a lot of good great individuals to make great things happen so I’m just happy to be surrounded by them.”

Duval’s position will be taken over by current director of recreation services Shane Ray.

“I’m excited to take on this role and work alongside council, staff, and the community to build on Ritchot’s many strengths and create opportunities for sustainable growth,” said Ray. “This is a vibrant and evolving municipality, and I look forward to supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all residents.”

Ray has 25 years of experience in municipal administration, financial management, and community development. As director of recreation services, he successfully secured funding for key community projects, expanded recreation programs, and strengthened partnerships with local organizations, according to the RM. He held leadership roles with Recreation Manitoba, Red River College, and CurlManitoba.

“Shane comes with good leadership skills so he will be able to move forward on a lot of projects that I need to hand off to him,” said Duval. “Just being patient with things, being patient with government because it doesn’t happen overnight. I think that’s the biggest key is just to stick with what works and just be patient.”

Duval’s last day is on April 30.