Huron-Kinloss clerk to become CAO/clerk of Brockton Jan. 1, 2018

Huron-Kinloss clerk Sonya Watson (above) has resigned her post, effective Dec. 31, 2017, as she prepares to become the new chief administrative officer/clerk for the Municipality of Brockton.

In a letter to township council, read by mayor Mitch Twolan at the committee-of-the-whole meeting Monday night (Nov. 6), Watson said she has been very fortunate to work with such a great team and has enjoyed the ongoing support of the mayor, chief administrative officer Mary Rose Walden, staff, and members of council.

"I recall vividly the phone call from Mary Rose (Walden), offering me the position of receptionist 16 years ago," said Watson. "This entry-level position has led me to a very fulfilling career in municipal government."

She advanced through the positions of receptionist and executive assistant, to become clerk 12 years ago. "I thank you all for the support, trust and guidance throughout my years with Huron-Kinloss."

Tuesday morning (Nov. 7), Brockton mayor David Inglis announced that Watson has been hired as the new CAO/clerk, taking over from Debra Roth who is retiring at the end of the year.

Inglis noted that Watson is a native of Brockton and has been a valued member of Huron-Kinloss Township for the past 16 years, serving for the past 12 years as the municipal clerk. She has an Executive Diploma in Municipal Management and accreditation as a Certified Municipal Officer. "Her education and experience are pertinent to being a successful leader and critical thinker for the Municipality of Brockton," he said.

“I am very pleased, on behalf of council to welcome Sonya (Watson) to the Brockton team as our new CAO/clerk," said Inglis. "Her management style and leadership abilities will certainly continue to move our community forward into the future. We all look forward to working with her, and I know that she will be made very welcome.”

Watson is excited to work with Brockton. “I was fortunate to have been raised in the community of Brockton with its mixed rural and urban lifestyle. I am thrilled to join the Brockton team as CAO/clerk and continue my career in municipal government in Bruce County alongside many of my municipal colleagues. I look forward to working in collaboration with council, staff and the citizens of Brockton to explore future opportunities for growth in the community, while continuing to focus on providing efficient and valued services.”

"The Municipality of Brockton looks forward to beginning the New Year with Sonya (Watson) as the CAO/clerk," said Inglis.