Appointment marks an important new chapter in municipal leadership while recognizing 22 years of dedicated service by retiring CAO Jeff Gushue.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2026 — Yarmouth, N.S. — The Town of Yarmouth is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Frotten as its new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), effective December 2026. Frotten brings extensive municipal leadership experience and a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing communities in southwestern Nova Scotia. His appointment follows the retirement of longtime CAO Jeff Gushue, who has served the Town with distinction for 22 years.
Since 2018, Frotten has served as CAO of the Municipality of Barrington, overseeing municipal operations, working closely with elected officials, and supporting the implementation of Council's strategic priorities. Prior to joining Barrington, he held the positions of Deputy Clerk and Clerk with the Municipality of Argyle.
Throughout his municipal career, Frotten has gained valuable experience in municipal administration, crisis management, project oversight, and community engagement. His knowledge of local government and the region will serve him well as he takes on the responsibility of leading the Town's administration, supporting Council's direction, and working alongside staff to deliver the services residents and businesses depend upon.
"I'm honoured to be joining the Town of Yarmouth as Chief Administrative Officer, and I appreciate the confidence Council has placed in me. I look forward to getting to know the team, listening to residents and businesses, and working with Council and staff to turn the Town's priorities into meaningful results. I'm excited to contribute to Yarmouth's future and to the services that make a difference in its residents' everyday lives," said Frotten.
Mayor Pam Mood welcomed Frotten's appointment while reflecting on the remarkable contribution of retiring CAO Jeff Gushue.
"We are delighted to welcome Chris to the Town of Yarmouth. He brings valuable experience, a strong understanding of municipal government, and a genuine appreciation for the importance of community. Council has placed its confidence in him, and I look forward to working closely with Chris as we continue building on the progress we've made and the opportunities ahead. I believe Chris is well suited to lead the Town’s administration into its next chapter."
"At the same time, this is a significant moment for our Town as we prepare to say goodbye to someone who has been such an important part of our municipal leadership for over two decades. It is difficult to put into words what 22 years of dedicated leadership means to a community. The role of Chief Administrative Officer is enormous, carrying responsibilities and challenges that most people will never see. Throughout his years of service, Jeff has met those challenges with integrity, wisdom, and a genuine love for Yarmouth. I have had the privilege of working closely with Jeff and have seen firsthand the extraordinary commitment he has brought to this role.”
The Town extends its sincere appreciation to Gushue for his exceptional years of service and the lasting contribution he has made to municipal administration and the community. His leadership has helped provide continuity and stability through over two decades of change, growth, and challenges.
As Frotten prepares to assume his new responsibilities in December, the Town looks forward to a smooth transition and a continued commitment to strong municipal leadership, responsible governance, and service to the people of Yarmouth.