City hires new administrator

Capping off a process that's lasted several months, the Green River City Council voted to hire a new city administrator Tuesday night.

The council voted to place Reed Clevenger, a resident who originally grew up in Green River, in its top administrative role. Clevenger previously headed up the Sweetwater One Foundation in Rock Springs and is a board member for the Green River Chamber of Commerce, a position he intends to resign from as a result of his appointment. Rebecca Eusek, director of the chamber, said Clevenger helped with their digital sign committee and frequently represented the chamber at events.

"He was an asset to the chamber board," she said.

When Clevenger's appointment and contract was approved by the council, applause broke out amongst residents attending the meeting. Mayor Pete Rust called Clevenger's appointment a historic day for the city, saying he hasn't heard anything but positive comments about Clevenger from people at city hall.

"I think it's fantastic we have a guy with local ties at the helm," Councilman Brett Stokes said.

Stokes said he believes Clevenger has a lot of experience for the position, despite the fact he doesn't have experience working in public administration. Stokes said he believes Clevenger will be able to pick up the job's responsibilities quickly, saying that the city administrator position is surrounded with good employees and department heads.

Clevenger said his first goals will be to get in touch with the city's employees and department heads, opening lines of communication to get everyone involved functioning as a team. He also plans to work closely with Mayor Rust and the rest of the council to bring about their ideas for the city.

He also believes his leadership and communication style will be an asset to the position.

Clevenger said the opportunity is exciting for him. Originally, he and his family returned to Green River after being hired as executive director of the Sweetwater One Foundation in Rock Springs. Clevenger said he was looking for jobs in North Carolina at the time and found the job posting. His parents still live in the area and decided to move his family to Wyoming after accepting the job. He said his children are enjoying life in Wyoming so far while he's gotten reacquainted to the aspects of Green River he's missed.

"You miss the scenery. You miss the lake and the river," he said. "Every time you come back, you love it."

Clevenger said he initially started attending council meetings before the position was opened, saying he initially wasn't looking for a change. However after the position opened, people approached him saying he should apply. Clevenger said the position allows him to be involved in the community, a goal he's aspired to since returning to Wyoming.

According to Police Chief Chris Steffen, Clevenger will start March 16.