City hires new permanent director of public services

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on September 6, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

The City of Medicine Hat has introduced its new managing director of public services who will officially commence the role on Oct. 1.

Joseph Hutter holds a Masters of Public Policy from the University of Calgary, and is joining the City of Medicine Hat from the Town of Nobleford, where he has served as the CAO since April 2021.

A city release says Hutter brings extensive experience in working with both administration and elected officials, and in the day-to-day workings of a municipality.

“We are excited to have Joe on board,” said city manager Ann Mitchell. “The public services portfolio is so important to our community, and Joe is keen to bring his ideas and passion to Medicine Hat.”

Hutter will replace Brian Stauth, who has served in the role for the past 18 months following a lengthy career with Medicine Hat’s Fire and Emergency Services. Stauth spent his final 11 years of service as chief before moving to the managing director role, and will remain with the city until the end of 2024 to wrap up some of the projects he has been leading.

“Brian’s service to this community can’t be overstated,” said Mitchell. “His leadership in both city hall and with fire and emergency services has benefited our community in countless ways. I want to publicly acknowledge how grateful I am for his support and congratulate him on a wonderful career in public service.”

Hutter, having grown up in the region and spent a considerable amount of time in the city, expressed his excitement to continue his public service career in Medicine Hat.

“(The Hat) has always been a place that I had hoped to return to. The opportunity to raise my family in Medicine Hat is very exciting, and I can’t wait to get started with the team,” said Hutter.

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