City Manager Brian Kenner to join Mayor Bowser’s staff
Muriel Bowser has named Takoma Park City Manager Brian Kenner as Washington DC deputy mayor for planning and economic development.
I’m happy for Brian — it’s a great opportunity for him — but disappointed for the Takoma Park. Brian is being hired for his former boss’s position. Before he started work here in Takoma Park in June, 2013, he was chief of staff for the position he will now hold. I believe he starts in Washington DC on February 2. The Takoma Park City Council will announce our own replacement plans as soon as we can.
The Washington Post has reported the story, “Bowser names Brian Kenner top economic development aide, shuffles agencies.”
Takoma Park’s city press release reads as follows:
January 8, 2015 – Mayor Bruce Williams announces that Takoma Park City Manager Brian Kenner has bee n named Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development by Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and will resign his post as City Manager of Takoma Park. He leaves for his new position after 19 months of service as Takoma Park’s top executive. Previous to serving as the City Manager, Kenner was the Chief Operating Officer for the Deputy Mayor’s Office of Planning and Economic Development for the District of Columbia.
Kenner started his position in June, 2013. He was chosen for the position after a nationwide search and was hired for his unique mix of skills and experience with public-private partnerships. Takoma Park has been notably active during his tenure. While Kenner was City Manager, Takoma Park became the first community in the United States to allow 16 year olds to vote in local elections, restricted the use of lawn pesticides and banned the use of polystyrene food containers. Kenner’s tenure also saw the hiring of a Sustainability Manager and the solicitation of proposals to redevelop a City-owned parcel in the Takoma Junction area, two long term goals of the City Takoma Park.
When asked about the transition, Brian remarked: “Takoma Park is a special place with a unique and outstanding culture of community involvement and government leadership. I am happy to have been a part of the City and know it remains in strong hands.”
Looking back on Kenner’s tenure, Mayor Bruce Williams noted he is thankful for his contributions which have built community optimism for the future of the City of Takoma Park which celebrates its 125th anniversary in April. “Brian has done a great job in Takoma Park. He engaged with the community right away, and he improved many aspects of our operations. We’ll miss him, but we’re in a strong position to tackle the issues we face in the coming months and years.”
Brian’s last day is scheduled to be January 31, 2015.