The City of Burlington has announced that Hassaan Basit will be taking on the role of city manager from April 22, 2024, just as Conservation Halton announced that Basit was resigning his position as president and CEO of that organization effective April 18, 2024.
Basit has been president and CEO of Conservation Halton for eight years and served the organization for another decade on top of that.
Said Chair of the Conservation Halton Board Gerry Smallegange of Basit in a press release, “His visionary approach has left an indelible mark. He redefined Conservation Halton’s business model, shaping two ground-breaking strategic plans that have not only elevated our business outcomes — providing financial stability and growth — but also fostered a positive organizational culture, instilling a growth and innovation mindset, collaborative problem-solving, and continuous learning.”
The city notes that Basit’s record of improving processes and reducing permit times within Conservation Halton will serve Burlington well as it seeks to meet their commitment of delivering 29,000 housing units by 2031.
In his Conservation Halton role, Basit also formed relationships with provincial and federal government, and was named chair of the province’s Conservation Authority Working Group. In addition, Basit and his team dealt with management of parks and flood water infrastructure, environmental restoration efforts, and delivering programs to customers, all with a sustainability and climate change mitigation lens. This experience aligns with the city’s priorities as outlined in the Vision to Focus four-year work plan.
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward says in a city press release, “Please join me in welcoming Hassaan Basit as our new City Manager. We are in a time of change and transition at the City of Burlington as we face the challenges of growth and plan for our future. I know that Mr. Basit will hit the ground running to serve our residents and businesses and ensure Burlington remains the destination of choice for people to live, visit and do business. We strive to deliver services in the most compassionate and effective way, and Mr. Basit will help get us there.”
Current City Manager Tim Commisso announced that he would not seek a renewal of his five-year contract upon its 2024 end back in October of last year. The process began soon after to find his replacement, and Commisso will work with Basit “for a seamless transition of duties,” says the city.
At the time, Commisso said, “I wish Mayor Meed Ward, and each member of Council, the very best in the future. Burlington is in very good hands. I now look forward to the day that I become yet another proud resident of Burlington.”
