There are big changes coming at the administrative level in the Town of Old Perlican.
After 31 years on the job, town clerk/manager Judi Barter is retiring on June 15.
"We're very sorry to see her go. She's put in a lot to the town," Mayor Harry Strong stated last week.
The town has begun the process of hiring a new administrative leader, and has engaged the services of a Mount Pearl consulting company to lead the process.
The deadline for applications is Friday, May 4.
The firm will make a recommendation to council, which will then have the final say on who gets the job, said Strong.
Strong stated that it will be difficult saying goodbye to Barter, since she has played such a vital role in overseeing the town's administrative affairs. Strong described Barter as "very capable and efficient," and said her knowledge of the Municipalities Act and the development history of the town has been immeasurable.
Barter declined an interview request from The Compass, saying "it's not my thing."
Those who know her were not surprised, saying she shuns the spotlight at every opportunity.
"She's not out for any glory," said Strong. "She's very humble."
Margie Hopkins, who's worked as an administrative assistant with the town for eight years, said Barter is very genuine, fair and easy-going, and "not one for accolades."
Hopkins added that Barter is "very concerned about the town and the welfare of its citizens, and is always looking to do the best thing."
Barter is originally from St. John's, and moved to Old Perlican in 1974 after her husband, Eric, started teaching in the region. Eric retired nearly a decade ago. They raised two sons in the town (James lives in Montreal, while Mark resides in St. John's).
She previously worked as a reporter with The Telegram and served a brief stint with the provincial government.
Barter is a graduate of Prince of Wales Collegiate in St. John's, and has a degree from Memorial University. She also has a certificate in municipal administration.
Prosperous town
Old Perlican is a town of roughy 660 residents, and is located at the tip of the Bay de Verde Peninsula. It is a service centre for the region, and is home to the Dr. A. A. Wilkinson Memorial Health Centre.
The fishery is a major employer, and there are two processing facilities in the town. The town is also a home port for many fishing enterprises.
With an annual budget of roughly $1.5 million, it is often described as one of the region's most prosperous towns.
