Joseph Hutter will formally start in the role on Oct. 1. Eli J. Ridder/CHAT News

By Eli J. Ridder

Medicine Hat hires new public services managing director

Sep 5, 2024 | 11:37 AM

The City of Medicine Hat has hired a new managing director of public services for the first time since its last permanent occupant left the role in 2022.

Joseph Hutter will start in his new executive role on Oct. 1, the city announced Thursday.

Hutter hails from the Town of Nobleford, where he has served as the chief administrative officer since April of 2021. Prior to that, he was the legislative clerk with Cardston County from 2016 to 2021.

He also holds a master of public policy from the University of Calgary.

Hutter has ample experience in managing the day-to-day operations of a municipality, working closely with both administration and elected officials, according to a city statement.

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The hire is the latest change among top staff at city hall.

Medicine Hat’s new city clerk Tarolyn Aaserud, former CAO of Cypress County, started on Sept. 3.

City Manager Ann Mitchell said in a statement she was looking forward to Hutter’s contributions.

“We are excited to have Joe on board,” Mitchell said.

“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 last 18 months.

Stauth, a former Medicine Hat fire chief, started as the interim public services managing director in February 2023.

While he originally planned to retire in March 2024, Stauth will stay with the city until the end of the year to wrap up projects he has been leaded as managing director.

Hutter will join three other managing directors that report directly to the city manager, according to an organization chart.