Red Deer County Probes Forensic Audit and CAO Performance
Forensic Audit and CAO Under Review
Red Deer County’s Governance and Priorities Committee met Tuesday to review an ongoing forensic audit and conduct a performance evaluation for Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Curtis Herzberg.
The committee spent 94 minutes in a closed session to discuss Herzberg’s performance. This evaluation determines the leadership of the county's administration and the management of public resources. No public statement was made regarding the outcome of the evaluation.
Why It Matters
Forensic audits are specialized investigations typically launched to look into financial irregularities, potential fraud, or legal non-compliance. While the specific nature of this audit remains confidential, the committee cited legal protections regarding "disclosure harmful to law enforcement" and "workplace investigations" for the eight-minute closed-door discussion.
Resident Concerns: Pool Petition and Safety
Councillor Dana Depalme alerted the committee to a growing movement regarding the Innisfail pool. Residents have launched a petition concerning the facility’s changerooms. Depalme reported receiving numerous calls from concerned locals, though the specific nature of the complaints was not detailed in the public record.
Road safety also dominated the inquiry period. Councillor Lonny Kennett requested that patrols monitor the intersection of Highway 595 and 262. Residents in Division 2 have voiced concerns about traffic behavior at that location. Councillor Christine Moore also asked for an update on how the county will address resident complaints regarding local speed limits.
Maintenance and Weed Control
Councillor Connie Huelsman followed up on an outstanding inquiry regarding weed control within the county. Administration confirmed they would provide a formal follow-up via email. Maintenance and weed management remain a recurring issue for rural property owners concerned with land value and agricultural health.
Other Business
* The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the July 8, 2025, meeting.
* Council members reviewed upcoming RSVP requirements for community events.
* The meeting was called to order at 11:15 a.m. and adjourned at 3:04 p.m. following the conclusion of the CAO evaluation.
What’s Next
County administration is tasked with responding to the inquiries regarding the Highway 595/262 intersection and speed limit concerns via email. The findings of the forensic audit and the CAO’s performance review are currently protected under the Access to Information Act and have not been scheduled for public release.