By Corey Fischer

New Communications Officer For City

Feb 26, 2018 | 4:30 PM

The City of Vernon has introduced its new communications officer.

Nick Nilsen will be in charge of city communications, and dealing with media requests.

“We are truly pleased to have Nick on board with our team,” said Patti Bridal, Director of Corporate Services.

He fills the position formerly held by Tanya Laing Gahr, who left the city job last September.

Nilsen tells CJIB News, he’s worked as a communications professional for over 20 years, first as an independent contractor and then as an employee of several governments and Crown corporations in Alberta, BC and Yukon.

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“I worked for the BC Pension Corporation in Victoria for several years, then worked in the Executive Council Office of the Yukon Government in Whitehorse. From there, I accepted a position with Alberta Health Services in Edmonton, and then I moved to municipal administration, working in Stony Plain and Beaumont, Alberta.

Nilsen says he really enjoys working for a municipal government.

“The work we do has a direct effect on the citizens so there is a lot of opportunity for creating win-win collaborations with residents and stakeholders. It’s very rewarding work.”

Nilsen and his wife Karina say are looking forward to getting involved in the community.

Councillor Brian Quiring joked with Nilsen after his introduction: “Did you leave Alberta because you wanted to drink BC wine?” said Quiring referring to the now cooled-off feud over wine and oil.

“Exactly, replied a laughing Nilsen.

by Corey Fischer