The Covington Board of Commissioners voted to appoint David Johnston as Covington’s next City Manager at its meeting Tuesday night.
Johnston (provided photo)
Johnston will receive a salary of $140,000 annually and will start no later than August, 21.
Johnston has 20 years of experience as a government manager, having served as the City Manager for the City of Maple Valley, Washington, Village Administrator for the cities of Rantoul, and Coal City in Illinois, and Town Manager for the City of Westfield, Indiana.
Additionally, Johnston has experience serving as the Administrative Director of the Indiana Health Centers, Inc. and the Adjunct Faculty Member at Indiana University-Purdue University.
Mayor Joseph U. Meyer stated, “David Johnston is well qualified and experienced. We believe he’ll bring the right attitude and leadership skills to direct Covington’s revitalization.”
Johnston has achieved success in public funding and economic development initiatives. He has generated significant opportunities, including the development of two major shopping centers in Maple Valley, during the recent recession.
Additionally, Johnston has vast experience navigating redevelopment projects and challenges. Specifically, while serving as Village Administrator of Rantoul, Johnston partnered with the Mayor, state legislators and the community to orchestrate the redevelopment of the former Chanute Air Force Base.
Meyer
Johnston has lead several strategic planning processes, including the initiation of the City of Maple Valley’s priority-based budgeting process and implementation of the City of Westfield’s first infrastructure master plan.
Johnston holds a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University, School of Public & Environmental Affairs, a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from the University of Notre Dame and a Certificate in Economic Development from the University of Oklahoma, Economic Development Institute.
Interim City Manager Loren Wolff stated, “We were very impressed not only with Johnston’s level of professionalism and extensive background, but his positive approach to problem solving. He will be a great asset to Covington, bringing a fresh perspective to the table.”
In total, the City received 37 applications, narrowing the search down to four finalist candidates. Applications were submitted from 16 different states, ranging from Washington, Colorado, and Utah to New York, Florida, and Minnesota. Additionally, the City has received international applications from Kenya and Japan.
Finalist candidates went through an extensive interview process, touring the city and meeting with citizens, community leaders, City staff and City Commission.
Municipal Solutions CEO & Principal David Evertsen stated, “When conducting national searches, we actively recruit candidates who meet three important criteria: the right qualifications, a good fit, and a solid commitment to the community they are seeking to work and live. Mr. Johnston possesses all three.”
In March, the City contracted with the consulting firm Municipal Solutions, LLC to launch an international search to recruit qualified candidates for the City Manager position.
Municipal Solutions is a premier consulting firm with more than 120 Senior Associates and has conducted over 200 searches nationally for small towns and large cities.
City of Covington
I sure hope Mr. Johnston is more appreciative of servicemen/ women and veterans than the folks of Rantoul, IL.