Pending a final vote of approval by the Springfield city commission on December 18th, Bryan Heck will assume the city manager’s role in February.
He’ll replace outgoing Springfield City Manager Jim Bodenmiller. Bodenmiller has held the post for the last decade and been a city employee for over 30 years.
Heck says his top priorities include improving internal communications within city departments.
"I feel the best employee is an educated employee and if they have the information and knowledge to go out and talk with the public and talking with our citizens I think that’s what’s best for our organization."
He intends to maintain the city’s commitment to repaving neighborhood streets, replace public service vehicles and equipment and continue to push for economic growth. There have been recent encouraging developments in Springfield including a new brewery, artist studios and a current renovation of the original downtown market.
Horton Hobbs of The Springfield Chamber of Commerce hopes that economic growth will continue and is optimistic that Heck’s leadership will further strengthen partnerships between city government, business and nonprofits.
"[Heck] understands the importance of how an engaged business community can help move a city forward," says Hobbs. "So we look forward to the continued partnerships and working arrangements that we have."
Current city manager Bodenmiller is set to retire on January 31.
