This past week, we welcomed our new city administrator, Eric Johnson, to the city of Ozark. I am excited about the 35 years of city experience and proven leadership he will bring to our city as we enter into a new chapter in its life. He is planning to meet as many community leaders as possible in the days ahead as he settles into his new role with the city of Ozark.
!["Eric]("https://ozarkmissouri.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=7984")
At the same time, we are also saying goodbye to our interim city administrator, Ben DeClure, who has been serving Ozark since. January 1st. Ben has been the perfect Interim these last seven months. I appreciated his leadership, wisdom, and guidance so much. During a time when the city was missing several key directors, he was a stabilizing force for the staff and employees of the city. I wish him the best in the next chapter of his life, and the city of Ozark, and myself, as mayor, will always be thankful for his time here.
I am also excited about Hayden Ponsar's recent hire as Director of the city's Parks & Recreation Department. His five years of service with the department provide him with a good understanding of the role, and his love for the city and vision for the department give me confidence that the city's park department programs are in good hands.