The city’s planning department continues hemorrhaging employees.
Development Planner Jessica Abrahams is leaving the city at the end of the month. She follows Development Coordinator Ashley D’Amico, who left at the start of October.
In September, Senior Planner Marc Davidson also handed in his resignation.
The recent turnover was discussed during Thursday’s meeting of the Committee of Adjustment.
“I would like to say thank you, Jessica, for all your hard work and the assistance that you’ve given us here with the committee,” said Planning & Development Services Clerk Angela Nesbitt. “We wish you all the very best in your next chapter of your life.”
When reached for comment, City Hall explained they continue "to face challenges in keeping pace with the tremendous growth experienced within the municipality."
"The Planning Division continues to face challenges as staff struggle to maintain a healthy work/life balance due to the high demands of development coupled with frequent legislative changes," they write, in an email to ThoroldToday. "Management is reviewing opportunities to improve the work environment and support recruitment and retention.”
Thorold is the eighth-fastest growing municipality in Canada and development is booming. A recent organizational review concluded that City Hall is understaffed for its population size. That's why the city is hiring 21 new staff members this year.
One thing’s for certain: the exodus of employees has not gone unnoticed.
“We sure lose a lot of people in this place,” said Committee of Adjustment member Ed Pizzo, during Thursday’s meeting.
“Is it any coincidence that once they sit here, they leave?” quipped committee chair John Theisen. “Is it my fault? I’m starting to feel a real personal attack here.”
However, it’s not all doom and gloom. The city has recently hired a new employee to help lighten the workload.
“Welcome to Laura,” said Theisen. “You’re not going anywhere — just letting you know. We’re closing the door and changing the locks. Nobody can get out.”
