Former Prince Rupert City Manager to take on interim duties with Gitxaala Nation

Dr. Robert Long isn't quite off to retirement sunset just yet and he will continue to still have a presence on the North Coast after having completed his time of service with the City of Prince Rupert.

In a Monday information release, the Gitxaala Nation have announced that Doctor Long, will take on the duties of Interim Chief Administrative officer for the Nation, set to fill in for an undetermined amount of time while current Administrator Marcia Robinson is on leave.

Chief Councillor Linda Innes noted of the former Prince Rupert City Manager's extensive experience in administration as part of the announcement today.

'We are pleased that Doctor Long will be joining the team at the Gixaala Nation. Bog's knowledge and leadership will be indispensable tools in creating a solid administration platform rooted in our strong community values. he will be part of a larger effort that will see the Gitxaala Nation scale new heights in education, health and well-being, employment, training and economic development to create opportunities for Gitxaalam members. To this important work, we welcome Bob."

The Gitxaala Nation also hailed his expertise and deep knowledge in solving complex policy problems, building social and financial capital, and the ability to complete complex and nuanced projects.

For his part, the long time municipal administrator noted his enthusiasm for the work ahead.

"I will enjoy brining my expertise and experience to the Gitxaala Nation. Building a solid and caring management team is what I enjoy doing and I look forward to doing so with the Nation -- Dr. Robert Long on taking up the interim duties with the Kitkatla based First Nation.

The former City Manager, who announced his plans to sept down in Prince Rupert in the summer,  has had some previous experience with the Gitxaala Nation while in service of the City over the last eight years. 

The First Nation and the City of Prince Rupert are involved with Rupert's Landing waterfront development projects around the Rotary Waterfront Park area.

As well the Gitxaala Nation have made some property investments in the City of Prince Rupert.

Mr. Long had been scheduled to stay on as Prince Rupert City Manager until the end of December, however the City announced that the transfer of duties to the new City Manager Dr. Robert Buchan would take place as of November 2nd.

The former City Manager is not the only former City of Prince Rupert employee to find a home with the Gitxaala Nation, one year ago David Geronazzo, the city's former Recreation Director joined the First Nation in and Employment and Training role.

The full announcement letter from today can be reviewed below:

Click to enlarge

For more notes on the Gitxaal Nation see our archive page here.