Official vote set for Wednesday
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Morgantown City Council will vote Wednesday at its regular meeting on the appointment and employment agreement for Kim Haws as city manager.
“We are thrilled about the outcome of this search,” Morgantown Mayor Ron Dulaney Jr. said in a release posted by the city on Facebook. “Kim rose to the top of an extremely competitive pool of applicants. He is a strong, experienced leader who will bring an open, collaborative and proactive approach to the management of our city. Kim understands the unique challenges and opportunities of municipalities in West Virginia. His experience with impactful economic development projects will help us realize our redevelopment and development opportunities downtown, along the riverfront, and at the airport.
“He has experience guiding downtown revitalization initiatives and significant municipal recreation improvements. Kim has a strong record of managing change and growth and will share the city’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all in our community.”
According to the release posted by Andrew Stacy, Morgantown’s communications director, Haws most recently served as city manager in Bridgeport for 20 years. Before that, he was the city manager for East Palestine, Ohio, and city manager for St. Johns, Ariz. He has a master’s degree in public administration and a master’s degree in counseling from Northern Arizona University.
“The opportunity to serve as Morgantown city manager is an honor and privilege. I look forward to serving the city and the people of Morgantown,” said Haws. “There is a very positive energy and outlook that makes the community vibrant and exciting.”
The release said the selection comes after a national search that garnered more than 100 applicants.
Finalists participated in a process that included multiple interviews with city council, an opportunity to meet and talk with the city’s department heads, and with a community stakeholder group.
Emily Muzzarelli, who served as interim city manager will return to her position as assistant city manager. She did not apply for the position.
Haws will begin his new role on or about Dec. 4.
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