Top-ranked CBRM staffer retires, leaves many questions [Video]

On Friday, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality’s chief administrative officer will start a new chapter of her life – retirement.

“I feel that I’m always fighting the fight, and you get beat-down after a while, to be honest,” said Marie Walsh, when asked why she is stepping aside.

Walsh turns 61 in the winter and said instead of battling with the Nova Scotia government, she wants to spend time with her family.

However, it appears the decision to retire right now wasn’t made entirely on her own.

“Well, an offer was made for me,” Walsh said.

“And it was a good opportunity, good timing, new council.”

A spokesperson for the CBRM confirmed to CTV Atlantic on Wednesday that Walsh’s retirement package includes two year’s salary – at a little more than $220,000 per year – plus benefits.

Council voted 12-1 to accept the package on Tuesday.

“The severance package is likely to generate some discussion,” said Cape Breton University political scientist Tom Urbaniak.

Urbaniak said some of the …