Nanaimo's top bureaucrat has announced he plans to retire from his post effective Sept. 3.
City manager Al Kenning will be replaced by current community safety and development general manager Ted Swabey, a fellow veteran at city hall.
The announcement came shortly after 4 p.m. Tuesday.
According to a city press release, Kenning has been employed at the city since 1987. His announcement marks the end of a 35-year career in public service.
The Daily News attempted to contact Kenning for comment but could not reach him before deadline.
"Al has had an exemplary public service career and as city manager has provided exceptional leadership for council and staff," said Mayor John Ruttan.
"It has been a privilege to have worked with Al, and on behalf of council we wish him all the best in retirement."
Ruttan also had congratulatory words for Swabey, who has served the city for 23 years "in progressively more responsible positions," the press release says.
"Ted has always performed his responsibilities exceptionally well and is very well regarded within the organization and the community," Ruttan said.
According to the release, Swa-bey will start off with a starting salary of $209,270 per year. Kenning earned $230,315 in 2012.
The city also stated that the decision to "promote from within" was made after careful consideration.
"Council believes that promotion of a proven performer from within the organization is in the best interests of the organization and the community it serves at this time," the statement reads.
According to sources, Kenning was said to be considering retirement within the next year. However, Tuesday's announcement was unexpected.
Kenning took over as city manager in October 2009, replacing former city manager Jerry Berry, who had resigned the previous month.
Before becoming city manager, Kenning served in a number of different posts, including deputy city manager, director of finance and general manager of corporate services.
Kenning is the second high-profile official to leave city hall in recent months. Former deputy city manager Doug Holmes is also leaving the organization.
