OZARK, Mo. -- The City of Ozark has hired an interim city administrator to aid in carrying out city operations while the process of hiring a permanent city administrator is in progress.
The search committee, headed by Mayor Don Currence, selected Ben DeClue for the position.
DeClue has more than ten years of experience serving as a city administrator, assistant city administrator, and acting city administrator, and he has also worked as a city council member. He grew up and spent most of his life in St. Louis. DeClue served as an assistant city administrator in Lebanon for multiple years, including a one-year stint as interim city administrator. As such, he has experience assisting communities during times of transition.
"I am excited to be here," DeClue said. "Ozark is a fantastic community with numerous opportunities. I believe the search for the city administrator will bring top-notch candidates due to the position's high desirability."
DeClue earned a bachelor's degree in political science, a master's degree in public administration, and a Chancellors' Certificate in Planning and Zoning.
The Board of Aldermen intends to employ an executive search firm to assist in finding a permanent city administrator. They hope to present a contract for approval at the Board of Aldermen Meeting on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
City Hall will be closed on Monday, Jan. 15, for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, so the Board of Aldermen meeting will be held the following business day. Click here for the City Calendar.