Council Appoints Shrishma Davé as Clerk for the Municipality of Port Hope

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - Port Hope, ON

Following their recent meeting, Council of the Municipality of Port Hope proudly announces the appointment of Shrishma Davé to the position of Clerk.

Joining the Municipality of Port Hope in September 2021, Ms. Davé assumed the role of Manager of Legislative Services/Deputy Clerk. During her tenure, she demonstrated exceptional leadership by spearheading vital initiatives such as overseeing the logistical preparations for the 2022 Municipal Election and conducting a comprehensive review of the Municipality’s Procedural By-law. Noteworthy achievements include her instrumental role in innovating council secretariat operations and records retention practices, highlighted by the successful implementation of an Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS). Additionally, Ms. Davé contributed her expertise to a provincial municipal elections working group through the Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO) in 2021-2022, showcasing her commitment to excellence in municipal elections administration.

“I am grateful to be entrusted with the critical responsibility of leading the legislative portfolio for the Municipality of Port Hope,” states Ms. Davé. “The confidence placed in me by Council and administration is a profound honour, one I humbly accept with a deep sense of commitment and dedication. I look forward to continued collaboration with my esteemed colleagues to foster accountability and transparency in governance through informed decision making and inclusive participation.”

In August 2023, Ms. Davé assumed the role of Acting Clerk to provide transitional support to the Municipality during the recruitment process for the Chief Administrative Officer. During this period, Brian Gilmer, holding the title of Director, Corporate Services / Clerk, served as Interim CAO. Following the appointment of the new CAO, Director Gilmer resumed his position as Director of Corporate Services, while Ms. Davé continued in her role as Acting Clerk.

"On behalf of the Council and the entire community of Port Hope, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Shrishma on her appointment as Clerk,” states Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “Her unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership have already made a significant impact on our Municipality, and I have full confidence that she will continue to excel in this vital role, fostering transparency, efficiency, and integrity in our legislative processes."

With over 12 years of extensive experience across various sectors including NGOs, consultancy firms, and government institutions, Ms. Davé has refined her expertise in governance, strategic planning, and policy creation. Her previous roles include serving as a Legislative Specialist for the Town of Whitby, where she conducted comprehensive legislative research, facilitated policy coordination, managed council secretariat functions, and played a pivotal role in municipal elections.

Ms. Davé assumes the role of Clerk, effective immediately. Director Gilmer will provide ongoing support and mentorship to Ms. Davé during the upcoming by-election and will undertake any duties of the Deputy Clerk as needed.