The City of Willard has appointed Matthew Henry as its new city administrator, placing him in charge of overseeing daily municipal operations and helping guide future development efforts.
The appointment was announced by city officials, according to a community announcement. In the role, Henry will work with the mayor, Board of Aldermen, city staff, businesses and residents as the city pursues strategic priorities and municipal service goals.
Henry brings experience in local government administration and said that he was attracted to Willard's focus on growth and community engagement.
“I am honored to accept the opportunity to serve as the City Administrator for the City of Willard, Missouri,” Henry said in the announcement.
He said that public
service and helping communities grow while maintaining their character have been priorities throughout his career.
“Willard's deep sense of community, commitment to responsible growth and vision for the future made this an opportunity that I was excited to embrace,” Henry said in the announcement.
City officials said that Henry will oversee the administration of city operations while coordinating with elected leaders, staff members, businesses and community stakeholders.
According to the announcement, Henry cited Willard's location, economy, schools and resident involvement as factors that drew him to the position.
“I was drawn to Willard because of its reputation as a thriving community that values both progress and quality of life,” Henry said in the announcement.
Priorities for city operations
Henry said that his initial priorities include supporting economic development efforts, maintaining and improving infrastructure and promoting efficient and transparent city operations.
“As city administrator, my priorities will include supporting responsible economic development, maintaining, and improving public infrastructure, and ensuring efficient and transparent city operations,” Henry said in the announcement.
He added that collaboration, fiscal responsibility and long-term planning are key elements of successful communities.
Focus on future growth
Looking ahead, Henry said that he plans to focus on strengthening public services, supporting business growth, addressing infrastructure needs and preserving the qualities that residents value about the community.
“Looking ahead, I am excited to work toward initiatives that strengthen public services, support local business growth, address future infrastructure needs and preserve the community character that makes Willard a desirable place to call home,” Henry said in the announcement.
Henry said that his goal is to help position the city for future growth while maintaining services and opportunities for residents and businesses.
“I am grateful for the confidence placed in me and look forward to serving the citizens of Willard and helping shape an even stronger future for the community,” Henry said in the announcement.
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This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Willard names new city administrator
