Chapter 21 – Career Options in Local Government
21.4 Levin Graduates Lead: Robert Fowler (Assistant City Manager)
Professionals in Northeast Ohio, like Robert Fowler, demonstrate how individuals can apply their expertise across various administrative structures. Fowler, a Levin College alumnus, has navigated roles in both council/manager and mayor/council systems, showcasing the versatility and adaptability required to excel in local government leadership.
His career spans diverse positions such as assistant city manager in Mentor, administrative officer in Norton, director of public safety in Lorain, director of administration in Wooster, and village administrator in Carrollton. These roles have enabled him to work under both city manager-led and mayor-led governance structures, leveraging his expertise in municipal operations, finance, grant writing, and public safety. For example, his achievements in Norton—securing over $10 million in grant funding—highlight his ability to implement strategic initiatives, while his time as Lorain’s director of public safety demonstrates his capacity to operate as a department head within a mayor/council framework.
Department Heads
A department head in local government is a senior official responsible for managing a specific municipal department or agency. They oversee daily operations, develop and implement policies, manage budgets, and ensure the department meets the needs of the community. Department heads typically report to the city manager, mayor, or another senior official, depending on the local government’s structure, and they play a key role in delivering public services effectively and efficiently.
Examples of department heads in local government include:
- Police Chief – Leads the police department, focusing on law enforcement and public safety.
- Fire Chief – Manages the fire department and oversees emergency response and fire prevention efforts.
- Public Works Director – Supervises the maintenance of public infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and city facilities.
- Parks and Recreation Director – Oversees public parks, recreational programs, and community events.
- Finance Director – Manages the city’s budget, accounting, and financial planning.
- Planning Director – Guides city planning efforts, including zoning, land use, and urban development.
- Human Resources Director – Handles employee recruitment, retention, and workplace policies.
These roles are vital to the functioning of a city or municipality, as each department contributes to the well-being and quality of life of residents.
As assistant city manager of Mentor, Ohio, Fowler plays a key role in supporting the city manager in overseeing the city’s administration and operations.
Assistant City Managers
An assistant city manager is a senior administrator in local government who supports the city manager in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the municipality. This role bridges the gap between the city manager and department heads, ensuring that policies and initiatives are effectively implemented across city departments. Key responsibilities of an assistant city manager typically include:
- Supervising specific departments or divisions to ensure efficient operations.
- Managing special projects or initiatives that align with the city’s strategic goals.
- Assisting in the development and oversight of the city’s budget.
- Coordinating interdepartmental collaboration and communication.
- Representing the city manager in meetings, public events, or other official capacities.
- Addressing operational or administrative challenges within the municipality.
Assistant city managers play a role in maintaining smooth municipal operations by providing leadership, problem-solving, and support to both the city manager and city staff. This position requires a broad skill set, including expertise in municipal governance, strategic planning, and public administration, to meet the diverse needs of the community.
Fowler’s professional service, including his tenure as president of the Ohio City/County Management Association (OCMA), underscores how professionals in Northeast Ohio can bridge governance models while advancing the values of ethical leadership and professional development. His career exemplifies the fluidity with which skilled public administrators can transition between models, applying their knowledge and leadership to improve communities across governance structures. Like Tanisha Briley, Fowler studied under Professor Sy Murray.
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