Town of Burstall announces new assistant CAO, enacts Public Conduct Bylaw

By Kate Winquist

BURSTALL — The Town of Burstall has appointed Shawna Smith as Assistant to the Chief Administrative Officer following the CAO recruitment process. Smith will begin her new role on Jan. 12, 2026, and will commence online Local Government professional development through the University of Regina to meet the educational requirements for certification as a future Chief Administrative Officer.

Council and administration welcomed Smith to the municipal team, praising her skills and commitment. Tim Marcus of Prairie Rising will continue to serve as CAO during the transition, providing more than 40 years of experience and guidance to the team. Helen Caywood will remain part of the administrative staff in a volunteer capacity, offering continuity and institutional knowledge.

“The Town of Burstall looks forward to working collaboratively with this administrative team as it continues to serve the community,” said Mayor Colleen Bodnarchuk in a statement.

In a separate initiative, Burstall Town Council has enacted Bylaw 2025-218, the Public Conduct Bylaw, in response to an unusually high volume of complaints, many of which have been repetitive, frivolous, or harassing. Council noted that addressing these complaints has increasingly diverted time and resources from core priorities.

The bylaw establishes guidelines for respectful communication with the Town and promotes a workplace free from harassment for council members, staff, and the public. It addresses behaviours such as unreasonable or unfair conduct, requests for information based on rumours, frivolous or vexatious complaints, and persistent requests that consume disproportionate staff time.

When such behaviour is identified, the Town may issue a written notice requesting that the conduct cease. In cases of severity or continued non-compliance, restrictions on contact with the Town may be applied. Copies of the bylaw are available at the Town Office.

“As we enter 2026, we encourage all community members to engage constructively, share concerns respectfully, and collaborate with us to build a sustainable, welcoming, and forward-looking future for Burstall,” said Bodnarchuk.