How long have you been an FCCMA member and why did you join? I joined because, as a new Assistant City Manager, I felt I should be part of FCCMA…I almost view it as a job requirement. I also joined because my uncle, Chris Holley, is a long-time FCCMA member, and my cousin, Christopher Holley, works for the Florida League of Cities. They encouraged me to become a part of the FCCMA.
Are you an ICMA member? Why did you join, and how long have you been a member?
Yes. Same reason as the FCCMA membership…it’s just a good idea to be part of the professional organization that deals with your profession. It’s common sense!
Please describe your areas of formal/advanced education (if applicable).
I attended a military service academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, for my bachelor’s degree (concentration in government). I got an MBA from the University of Florida.
Why did you select a career in public service?
Because I grew an affinity for public service as part of serving in the military. Now I can continue to serve (without having to move every few years)!
Have you always been in the public sector, or have you had experience in the private sector?
Twenty-four years of Active Duty Service in the Coast Guard before retiring last year.
Please tell us about your current position and give a brief job description if you are not a City Administrator/Manager.
I am a new Assistant City Manager for the City of Venice.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Talking/working with city employees to overcome both professional and personal challenges.
What is your least favorite part of the job?
I’ll let you know if I find something I don’t like.
What are your hobbies/interests?
Camping, going to theme parks, mini-weekend getaways throughout the state, and fantasy football.
If you could give one piece of advice to people interested in a career in public service, what would it be?
Proactively seek mentors who are or have served in public service.
Who were your mentors and how have you passed this information down to other aspiring public administrators?
When I was trying to make the leap from the military to local government, I sought out veterans. Shout out to Casey Lucious at Marco Island and Will McKannay at Fort Myers Beach for their guidance.
What career would you pick if you were to pick another?
An officer in the U.S. Coast Guard, of course.
