Nanaimo has found an official spokesman.
Philip Cooper was selected from 53 applicants for the city communications manager position.
City councillors voted to create the position in February, to improve information flow as the city takes on larger and potentially more costly new initiatives.
But some councillors called it too costly, and critics said it would obscure information, rather than make city hall more transparent.
Most cities of Nanaimo's size have a communications department with several staff members.
Cooper was communications director for the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Alta.
On Feb. 20, a divided city council voted on Coun. Diane Brennan's motion to create the position. It passed by a narrow 5-4 vote.
The idea originated with staff members, who listed it as an option to improve communications with the public, a problem identified in a report by city staff.
Coun. Fred Pattje voted against spending the money.
He now supports the move, but said, "I don't want anyone in this municipality to have the impression they cannot call me or email me, because I will still be here to answer questions."
Brennan said it will help the city explain complex ideas, like options to improve the municipal water system and implementing the city's new strategic plan.
Cooper will be paid between $83,807 and $104,758 annually.
He is expected to start work Sept. 10.
