Fort Madison, IA – Byron Smith has been on the job for about 6 weeks. He previously served as the assistant City Manager and City Planner for Poplar Bluff, MO.
Smith brings roughly 10 years of experience in city government to Fort Madison. He says he is working to get a handle on all of the issues and challenges facing Fort Madison and its residents.
Smith says the learning process began before he first arrived in Southeast Iowa. He says he read the local newspapers, online, and started meeting with community groups and service organizations as soon as he got to town.
Smith says he has many responsibilities as city manager. He says, "I take what the city council is trying to accomplish and transfer that to day-to-day activities."
Smith says he would like to see a better utilization of the city's new website and continued improvements in customer service.
He says he will also be open to public input and ideas.
It's been nearly three years since the Fort Madison City Council asked for the resignation of former City Manager Bill Kelly.
Smith will be paid $80,000 during the first year of his contract.