How long have you been a FCCMA member and why did you join?
25 years. I was encouraged by my boss, Bobby Green to join to stay educated on currents trends and network with other members to learn firsthand about the profession.
Are you an ICMA member, why did you join, and how long have you been a member?
Yes. 25 years. For me the strongest part of ICMA is the Code of Ethics and our commitment to live by the code and potentially be judged by our peers for violating the Code is important as a local government manager. In addition, the wealth of timely information that ICMA produces is a valuable asset as well.
Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education.
Bachelor of Arts, University of Florida 1988. Master of Public Administration, University of South Florida 1998.
Why did you select a career in public service?
My father was a firefighter when I was growing up and eventually became Fire Chief of Winter Haven which served as my introduction to local government. At times during his career he would serve as interim city manager which opened my eyes to city management. I knew then that was my career goal.
Have you always been in the public sector or have you had experience in the private sector?
I did a year and a half in the private sector when I completed my Bachelor’s degree working for a company that ran college bookstores.
Please tell us about your current position and give a brief job description if you are not a City Administrator/Manager.
I am Deputy City Manager of Haines City. As deputy, I do the usual assistant/deputy functions, in addition the Fire Chief, Public Works Director and Utilities Director are my direct reports.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Working with employees and citizens to solve problems.
What is your least favorite part of the job?
Terminating employees.
What is your most memorable experience on the job?
The opening of the Frostproof Sports Complex for a couple of reasons. One, it was the first project I oversaw as city manager. Second, it was a multiagency project. Third, it was the first fireworks display in town.
If you could give one piece of advice to people interested in a career in public service, what would it be?
Focus on what is essential.
Who were your mentors and how have you passed this information down to other aspiring public administrators?
Bobby Green, Ken Hammons, Dick Simmons, and Al Minner. Everywhere I have worked I have encouraged and helped those employees that want to get into management or to just better themselves. In some situations, I have connected employees with other managers.
