Application Review Committee

Cal HuntleyFormer Mayor, City of Flin Flon (Chair)

Born and raised in Flin Flon, Manitoba, Cal has spent most of his life experiencing Manitoba’s northern communities. In addition to serving in his second term as the Mayor of Flin Flon, Cal is the chair of several initiatives and organizations in the north, including the Northern Regional Health Authority, Flin Flon and District Assessment and Referral Service, and most recently, the MMDF Application Review Committee. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the Mining Association of Manitoba, Community Futures Greenstone, SJHL Flin Flon Junior Bombers, and One North Rail.

Professionally, Cal works as the HR Special Projects Superintendent at Hudbay Minerals Inc. Cal is the proud father of two beautiful grown daughters, Sydnie and Mallory, and grandfather to four wonderful grandchildren. In his spare time, he enjoys time with his family at the cottage and the occasional game of golf.

Kathy ValentinoCouncilor, City of Thompson (Vice-Chair)

Born and raised in Thompson, Manitoba, Kathy has an in-depth knowledge of the challenges and opportunities in northern Manitoba. She has knowledge and experience in the resource sector, tourism, and relationship-building with Indigenous partners and remote communities.

In addition to a 27-year career in the financial industry, Kathy is a passionate volunteer for recreation in the north. In the summer months, Kathy can be found at her remote cabin at Paint Lake. In addition to a 27-year career in the financial industry, Kathy is a passionate volunteer for recreation in the north. In the summer months, Kathy can be found at her remote cabin at Paint Lake.

Tim JohnstonManager, CF North Central Development

Tim Johnston, a proud Thompson local, grew up in a family deeply connected to the community’s roots. After graduating from R.D. Parker Collegiate in 1980, Tim earned a degree in administrative studies from the University of Winnipeg. Despite working in the not-for-profit and government sectors in both Thompson and Winnipeg, he was drawn back to his hometown in 1991, enticed by the unique opportunities and lifestyle it offered.

In 1988, Tim acquired J.B. Johnston Ventures Limited, a local property management company with a 60-year legacy. Currently, he manages the North Central Community Futures Development Corporation Inc., serving 17 communities in the north central region, including First Nations, Northern Affairs, and Urban Industrial areas. Tim’s rich experience and relationships extend across Northern Manitoba, embracing Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, business, industry, and government. Tim’s dedication led him to become the 6th Mayor of the City of Thompson in 2006, earning re-election in 2010 after initially serving as a City Councilors from 2002. Beyond his professional commitments, Tim is a passionate volunteer, contributing to the Thompson Community Foundation, Thompson Regional Airport Authority, Thompson Rotary Club, and Thompson Chamber of Commerce. His leadership roles include two terms as President of the Thompson Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the Thompson Regional Airport Authority. On a national scale, Tim previously served as a Member of the Community of Interest panel with the Mining Association of Canada. Notably, during his mayoral tenure, he was honored with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for his outstanding community involvement. Tim’s dedication led him to become the 6th Mayor of the City of Thompson in 2006, earning re-election in 2010 after initially serving as a City Councilor from 2002. Beyond his professional commitments, Tim is a passionate volunteer, contributing to the Thompson Community Foundation, Thompson Regional Airport Authority, Thompson Rotary Club, and Thompson Chamber of Commerce. His leadership roles include two terms as President of the Thompson Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the Thompson Regional Airport Authority. On a national scale, Tim previously served as a Member of the Community of Interest panel with the Mining Association of Canada. Notably, during his mayoral tenure, he was honored with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for his outstanding community involvement.

Chris ThevenotCEO, Communities Economic Development Fund

Raised in Thompson, Manitoba, Chris grew up taking advantage of all the North has to offer; fishing, camping, boating and skiing. Chris has been with CEDF since 2012 and has over 15 years of experience in the field of finance. He spent the majority of his time at CEDF in the CFO position until December 2021 when he was appointed to his current role as CEO. Since entering the industry, he has found working in the field of economic development rewarding, seeing the impact it can leave on a community and an individual.

Glenn LaycockExecutive Director of the Northern Manitoba Sector Council (NMSC)

Glenn grew up and still lives in Thompson, Manitoba. He started working in the mining Industry in 1987 and retired from Inco/Vale after 32 years. During his time with Inco/Vale Glenn was granted an education leave and graduated from the University of Winnipeg with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies. During his time with Inco/Vale Glenn worked in numerous positions including Underground Miner, Mine Engineering Blaster, Superintendent of Training. and Superintendent of Logistics at the T-1 Mine until his retirement in 2019. Glenn has been with NMSC for the past four years in the Thompson office.