Planned organizational changes build on successful succession planning and align services for the future. 

East Zorra-Tavistock is taking the next step in strengthening its leadership and service delivery with a new organizational structure that brings community focused services together while creating clear leadership for the future.

The changes follow the planned retirement of Director of Fire and Emergency Management Services, Fire Chief, Scott Alexander, and reflect the Township’s ongoing commitment to succession planning, leadership development and organizational sustainability. 

Effective October 12, 2026, East Zorra-Tavistock will establish a new Community and Protective Services Department, bringing together fire and emergency services, community emergency management, recreation and facilities, together under one department with a coordinated administrative structure. At the same time, the Infrastructure Services Department will be established, overseeing roads and transportation networks, winter operations, stormwater and drainage, fleet and equipment, construction project management, parks, and capital and asset management.

Tom Lightfoot, currently serving as Director of Infrastructure and Community Services, will lead the new Department as the Director of Community and Protective Services, Fire Chief. Claire Ohrling, currently Engineering Technologist/Drainage Superintendent, will assume the role and responsibility of Director of Infrastructure Services. 

Comment 

CAO Karen DePrest, Township of East Zorra-Tavistock 
“This is an exciting opportunity to build on the strong foundation we have today while preparing our organization for the future,” said Chief Administrative Officer Karen DePrest. “We have talented and experienced leaders within our organization that have demonstrated the leadership, knowledge, and experience needed to lead these departments. This is a succession decision that recognizes internal talent while ensuring continuity for our residents and the services that they rely on.”

Mayor Phil Schaefer, Township of East Zorra-Tavistock 
“This restructuring allows us to leverage our talent and lay the groundwork for strong leadership now and into the future. On behalf of Council, staff, and residents I want to wish Chief Alexander all the best in his upcoming retirement, and also to offer congratulations to Tom Lightfoot and Claire Ohrling on their new positions,” Mayor Phil Schaefer.

In determining the new structure and leadership assignments, consideration was given to the Township’s existing leadership capacity, institutional knowledge, experience, demonstrated performance and the continuity required for essential municipal services.

The changes will take effect October 12, 2026, with transition planning already underway to support employees, maintain service delivery and ensure a smooth implementation.

About Township of East Zorra-Tavistock

Located in the heart of northern Oxford County, the Township of East Zorra-Tavistock is a great place to work, live and play. Accessible by highway, air and railway, East Zorra-Tavistock’s settled areas are a short drive from Highway 401, 402 and 403 and is located near several airports. East Zorra-Tavistock is a part of the eight area municipalities that make up the Oxford County municipal government. The Township of East Zorra-Tavistock was formed through the amalgamation of numerous communities, including Braemar, Cassel, East Zorra, Hickson, Huntingford, Innerkip, Perry Mine, Perrys Lane, Strathallan, Tavistock, Tollgate, and Willow Lake. East Zorra-Tavistock’s three largest towns are Hickson, Innerkip and Tavistock. The Township of East Zorra-Tavistock municipal office is located in Hickson. Learn more at www.ezt.ca