How long have you been an FCCMA member and why did you join?
Seven years. I retired and then returned. I believe in the organization and the benefits.
Are you an ICMA member? Why did you join, and how long have you been a member?
Yes, seven years; I believe in the organization and the benefits.
Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education.
Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Certified in Homeland Security Terrorism Navigation and Police Management
Why did you select a career in public service?
Public service is who I am. I love working with people and giving back to the community. My grandfather was a great influence on my career as well.
Have you always been in the public sector, or have you had experience in the private sector?
I have done both. I worked mostly in the public sector, but I have worked in the private sector. I owned a business with my son.
Please tell us about your current position and give a brief job description if you are not a City Administrator/Manager.
I am the City Manager for the City of Fellsmere.
Please describe your typical day.
Not every day is the same. I enjoy interacting and working with people. Nothing is ever typical.
What is your favorite part of the job?
I love the challenges it brings. I love thinking outside the box and solving problems. I love giving back to the community and interacting with them. I love who I work with and the relationships I have built.
What is your least favorite part of the job?
Discipline is probably my least favorite part, but it is a necessary part of any leadership position.
If you are involved in any volunteer or leadership activities in your community, please share with us a bit about what you do and why it is important to you.
I am involved in Operation Hope and working with the community; they provide support, education, and assistance to needy families regardless of race, color, or religion. We distribute food, clothes, and household items to the needy.
What is your most memorable experience on the job?
The day I was hired. All the wonderful people I have worked with and to see what we have given back to the community.
What are your hobbies/interests?
Helping people.
If you could give one piece of advice to people interested in a career in public service, what would it be?
It is a very rewarding job, and you should give it back and pay it forward.
Who were your mentors, and how have you passed this information down to other aspiring public administrators?
My mentors were my father and other supervisors. They have taught me what you keep and do, and what not to do.
What career would you pick if you were to pick another?
I would have been a lawyer.
Do you have a story you can share about how being a member of FCCMA has helped you or impacted you in a positive way?
Being a member has helped me with all the training and networking, and having information and resources readily available.
