After a nationwide search, Roanoke City Council is introducing its new city manager, Valmarie Turner, during a press conference in the municipal building's northern atrium at 1 p.m. Monday.
The city council unanimously approved hiring Turner during its meeting on Monday morning.
"Welcome aboard," said Mayor Sherman Lea.
Turner most recently served as deputy city manager in Fairfax, she said following the meeting. Previously, Turner worked as assistant county administrator in Loudoun County, according to a city news release.
"Turner brings over 30 years of local government experience to the position," according to the release. "With an extensive background in community and economic development, social and human services programs, finance and procurement, and public improvement projects."
The hiring of Turner ends a half-year search for a new city manager, after former manager Bob Cowell resigned - and was paid severance - in June. Interim Lydia Patton has filled the role since then, during a nationwide search for the next manager.
"My early priorities will be meeting with Council members, engaging with City staff, and building relationships with business and non-profit partners in the City and region and with the other local governments in the Roanoke Valley," Turner said in the release.
Turner's introduction also comes at a time of significant change among city leadership, with four of the current city council members nearing the ends of their terms and new members elected in November to start in January.
"We were fortunate to have a very strong pool of qualified applicants and Ms. Turner rose to the top," Lea said in the release. "I am confident that she will work well with the new Mayor and Council to further improve the quality of life in Roanoke."
City Council Member and Personnel Committee Chair Trish White-Boyd said Turner will be an asset to the city.
"Council was impressed by her demeanor and her experience with many issues facing the City such as economic development, affordable housing, and homelessness," White-Boyd said in the release. "She has an excellent reputation as a leader, a team builder, and someone who builds collaborative relationships with stakeholders in the community."
Turner's starting annual salary is $255,000, plus other benefits, according to a copy of her employment agreement provided by the city attorney. The contract says Turner starts as city manager effective Jan. 13.
Turner is set to introduce herself at the afternoon news conference.
Luke Weir (540) 566-8917
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