Top 10 City Managers - 2025

Jon Amundson, City Manager of Richland, Washington, brings more than 20 years of experience in local government leadership. An ICMA Credentialed Manager, his career spans key roles in the city councils of Richland and Allen, Texas, where he advanced community-centered governance through strategic management and operational excellence. Recognized for cultivating effective, high-performing teams, he guides Richland’s vision for sustainable growth and responsive public service.

Every morning, when I walk into my office at City Hall, I am reminded that public service is both a privilege and a responsibility. As City Manager for Tulare, California, I oversee a community of about 72,000 residents and a full-service organization that includes everything from police and fire protection to water, sewer, and utilities. With a total annual budget of roughly $225 million and about 500 employees, managing a city like ours requires both strategy and heart.

John Noblitt, City Manager of Sanger, has over 20 years of municipal government experience. Starting out in planning and development, he gained expertise in public infrastructure and policy. His career reflects a deep commitment to public service, sustainable growth and building resilient, community-focused cities.

Andrew Bowsher leads the City of Sidney, Ohio, with a genuine passion for community growth and well-being. He combines practical experience in planning with a personal commitment to making the City of Sidney a welcoming and thriving place. Known for his approachable style, Bowsher works closely with partners and residents to bring new energy and opportunities to the city.

Jose Madrigal currently serves as the city manager for Durango, Colorado. His career in public service began in 2002, and over the years, he has held several leadership roles across Texas before making his way to Durango in 2020.

Joe Smolinski is a dedicated public servant whose military service in Haiti, Honduras, Croatia, Hungary and Bosnia shaped his global perspective. Rising to Director of Utilities in Mansfield, he embodies balance, persistence and integrity, qualities learned from remarkable mentors, while building a lasting legacy of leadership and community impact.

Travis Rothweiler has served as the City Manager of Twin Falls, Idaho, since 2011. With more than 25 years in municipal leadership, he has guided the city through transformative growth, economic expansion, and strategic planning. Previously, he held leadership roles in the City of Jerome, Idaho, and has been with Twin Falls since 2008. His leadership is defined by collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to cultivating a high-performing organizational culture.

Dennis Champine is the City Manager and Downtown Development Authority Director for The Michigan City of Center Line. His idea of leadership is grounded in ethics and integrity, which form the basis of his commitment to effectively managing government resources. Focused on meeting community needs, Champine demonstrates that principled leadership makes even the most challenging aspects of public service manageable and impactful.

Michael Hart is a dedicated public servant with over 17 years of experience in administration, including service as a former Mayor, EMT and combat veteran. As City Manager of La Junta, his leadership is defined by servant leadership, transparency and collaborative governance.

James Freed is the city manager and chief administrative officer at the City of Port Huron. He has over a decade of leadership experience in both the public and private sectors. Freed holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) and an MBA from Northwood University DeVos Graduate School. He has demonstrated expertise in driving economic growth, strengthening communities and leading effective government operations.

Dalton Rice serves as City Manager at City of Kerrville, Texas, a thriving community of about 25,000 residents. Kerrville is a full-service city that provides police, fire, reclaimed water, electric power, and more.

Over the past 12 months, York has emerged as the fourth‑fastest‑growing municipality in South Carolina, marking one of the most transformative periods in its history. Anchored by an approximate USD 60 million fiscal‑year budget, the city has reached new heights in recreation, public safety, and business‑ready infrastructure.