Ross closes out 39-year municipal career in Oyen
By Your Southwest Media Group
OYEN — There was a sense of both gratitude and respect in the room as the Town of Oyen marked Debbie Ross’s retirement as Chief Administrative Officer.
She began her career with the City of Medicine Hat, first through a work experience placement and then full-time, working her way up to supervisor of the utility building division. After seven years, she stepped away, married, and moved to the Buffalo area, where she and her husband Dale built their ranch and raised their family.
When her son Jarrod started school, Ross found it difficult to stay away from the workforce. In 1994, she took a part-time position with the Town of Oyen, a role that soon became full-time and marked the beginning of a long association with the community.
A well-earned laugh. Debbie Ross shares a joyful moment as she marks her retirement as Chief Administrative Officer, closing out a 39-year career in municipal government surrounded by colleagues and friends. Photo by Nikhil Vasani
Honouring a lasting impact. The Mayor and Council present Debbie Ross with a garden obelisk and Certificate of Appreciation. From left are Blake Hertz, Mayor Doug Jones, Ann O’Connor, Dustin Dick, Deputy Mayor Jack Hauck, Troy MacLean and Keith Munro. The certificate reads: “Thank you for your dedication and lasting impact on our community. Thank you and best wishes for a happy, healthy and fulfilling retirement.” Signed by Mayor Doug Jones, Council and CAO Sacha Martens. Photo by Diana Walker
Councillor Blake Hertz said the biggest thing Debbie Ross brought to council was stability. Photo by Nikhil Vasani
Mayor Doug Jones expressed appreciation on behalf of council and Oyen residents for Ross’s years of dedication and service, wishing her happiness and relaxation in retirement. Photo by Nikhil Vasani
Deputy Mayor Jack Hauck credited Ross’s steady leadership for helping council navigate challenges and complete major projects, including infrastructure work at the hospital. Photo by Nikhil Vasani
Recreation director Lee Tucker thanked Ross for her consistent support of the recreation department during her time as CAO. Photo by Nikhil Vasani
Special Areas Board chair Shaune Kovitch praised Ross’s resilience and calmness, noting the challenges of public service in a small community. Photo by Nikhil Vasani
Incoming CAO Sacha Martens said the town is well-positioned thanks in part to the foundation Ross helped build, and wished her well in the next chapter.
After 19 years in Oyen, Ross moved on to serve as chief administrative officer in the Village of Empress for nine years. Then, four years ago, Mayor Doug Jones persuaded her to return to Oyen to finish her career where much of it had been built.
In her remarks, Ross reflected on the projects completed during those final years and the people she worked alongside.
She thanked council, staff and the many departments and community groups she collaborated with, calling it a privilege to serve.
“Oyen is truly a remarkable community to work in and for,” she said. “Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.”
Throughout her time as CAO, Ross was known for her steady approach and ability to maintain strong working relationships between council, staff and the broader community. Her leadership helped guide the municipality through key initiatives while ensuring day-to-day operations remained stable.
Mayor Doug Jones, speaking on behalf of council and residents, said Ross had been an integral part of the organization.
“Her dedication and guidance have greatly benefited our community, and she will be sincerely missed,” he said.
Others echoed that sentiment, pointing to the consistency Ross brought to the role.
Deputy Mayor Jack Hauck, in a toast, credited her with providing stability during both successes and challenges, noting that it allowed council to move forward on major projects, including infrastructure work at the hospital.
Ross’s influence extended across departments as well. Recreation director Lee Tucker said he had worked under a dozen CAOs during his time with the town, including Ross twice, and thanked her for her ongoing support of recreation programs.
From a regional perspective, Special Areas Board chair Shaune Kovitch acknowledged the demands of public service in a small community and praised Ross for her resilience and calm approach.
Incoming CAO Sacha Martens noted the foundation Ross leaves behind.
“Oyen is in good stead today, in no small part because of the foundation you and others before you built,” Martens said. “Thank you for your years of quiet and faithful service.”
Ross’s career, spanning nearly four decades, leaves a legacy of stability, professionalism and commitment — qualities that will continue to shape the Town of Oyen long after her retirement.