Abbotsford has a new city manager. Council has appointed Mark Neill to the role, effective October 21, replacing Peter Sparanese, who announced his retirement in July.

Neill has been the city’s general manager of planning and development services since 2019 and was previously director of community planning. He also held senior planning roles with the Township of Langley. The city says he has more than 25 years of municipal planning and leadership experience, and he’s a Registered Professional Planner.

“Mark is a respected and collaborative leader who has served our community with integrity, professionalism and a strong commitment to excellence,” said Mayor Ross Siemens. Siemens added that Neill’s knowledge of the organization makes him well suited to lead the city as council sets its strategic plan and priorities for the term ahead.

As city manager, Neill will lead the city’s administration, carry out council’s strategic direction, oversee municipal operations, and support the delivery of services to residents and businesses.

Neill said he’s grateful for council’s confidence and looks forward to working with council, staff, community partners, and residents to keep delivering high-quality services.