Bethany Group has announced its decision to resign as the CAO for the Rimoka Housing Foundation.
The decision was made Wednesday, Oct. 28 during a regular meeting of the Rimoka board, announced chairperson Paul McLauchlin.
“We’re shocked,” said McLauchlin of the board’s reaction.
He did not say why Bethany Group resigned but added that the company will be working closely with Rimoka to ensure a relatively smooth transition for customers. Resigning is not as simple as handing in the papers, either, says McLauchlin.
Both groups need to work with the Ministry of Seniors as there are several steps that need to be followed, explained McLauchlin. He suggests “transition” is a better term for resigning due to the nature of care provided to seniors.
This decision affects residents of both Ponoka and Rimbey lodges — Legacy Place and Parkland Manor — as well as Golden Leisure Lodge in Ponoka. McLauchlin added that the board’s priority now is to find a CAO who is capable of handling the job. When Bethany Group took over several years ago as the CAO of Rimoka, there were several challenges the board faced, which have since been dealt with.
Bethany’s presence helped the Rimoka board during the time it managed Rimoka’s affairs, and now the board chair feels they are in a positive place to hire a new CAO. “We’re approaching this in a positive, professional manner,” said McLauchlin.
“Our first choice is going to be to hire local,” he added.
While there may be some challenges bringing the transition about for senior residents in Rimoka buildings, McLauchlin says the board is ready to ensure they are cared for. As more details become available, McLauchlin says Rimoka will be apprising the public of those changes.