City Manager: Joe Neeb
Executive Summary
Dear Friends: It is my honor to serve as City Manager for the City of Roswell and to lead a team of dedicated and talented employees, working to implement the vision and policy direction of the Mayor and City Council. Looking back on calendar year 2019, much has been accomplished, as highlighted in this annual report. Without a doubt, the most significant events involved major projects that have been years in preparation and construction were completed in 2019. Early in the year, the renovation of the Convention Center reopened with a renewed interest of attracting events and conferences to the community. The much needed Recreation and Aquatics Center opened mid-year and will be enjoyed by the community for generations. The City Council looked for additional ways to incorporate input into their decision making process. A Spring River Park and Zoo taskforce spent a major part of the year reviewing and considering departmental operations and ways to implement its master plan. The Roswell Air Center remains a major asset with relation to the City’s future economic growth. The City Council implemented the Airport Commission, a citizen advisory board to assist and provide direction of the asset. Along with these operational and organizational efforts, the City consolidated its projects into one comprehensive list. This list will assist the City with focusing its attention and assure that adequate resources are provided for those things that move the City forward. The City partnered with the Roswell/Chaves County Economic Development Council to complete a Retail Trade Study. On of the primary sections of this report identified opportunities for growth in various industries allowing the City and the RCCEDC to target complimentary business attraction. This study will remain important for the near future as we work to increase our economic development portfolio. Organizationally, Mike Mathews achieved the role of Deputy City Manager. His tireless commitment to service for the Roswell community is to be commended. Mike is an example of the commitment we hope every employee has for the City. Finding quality professional employees to fill the ranks has remained challenging. The City implemented a robust internship program that provides internships for every department within the City.
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