The St. Joseph City Commission has voted to hire Emily Hackworth as the new city manager.
Hackworth is currently the assistant city manager, having worked under outgoing Manager John Hodgson for nearly two years.
Commissioners interviewed Hackworth and Bridgman City Manager Juan Ganum for the post Wednesday and reconvened Thursday to make their decision. It wasn’t an easy one, with Commissioner Michael Sarola saying he wished the city could have both.
In the end, the vote was unanimous to hire Hackworth.
Mayor Brook Thomas told us Hackworth has been a capable assistant city manager.
“In her time here, I’ve worked very closely with her and I’ve been very impressed with everything that she’s done,” Thomas said. “She’s moved the ball forward on so many projects that were sitting stagnant. She has a proven track record of getting things done. I’ve seen it firsthand. She’s got both the vision and the action. She’s got the people qualities, just an all around, well-rounded candidate.”
Hackworth told us she’s ready to get started.
“I’m thrilled and really excited,” Hackworth said. “I can’t wait to dive in and keep doing the great work that the city commission and John have started. There’s a lot of work to do.”
Hackworth worked in mutliple roles for government in New York City and also as the chief operating officer of a New York non-profit before coming to St. Joseph. She’s led efforts to improve the downtown area since arriving, and commissioners noted this week she’s shown an ability build teams and get complex tasks done.
A subcommittee consisting of Commissioners Michelle Binkley and Sarola will now work on a contract for Hackworth.
Hodgson is retiring, and his last day will be in late September.
