Gerald Smith
GALESBURG — Galesburg has tentatively selected its new city manager.
According to a news release, the city has extended a conditional offer of employment to Gerald Smith to fill the role of Galesburg’s next City Manager. The offer is contingent upon approval of an employment agreement, which is scheduled for City Council consideration at the Monday, Sept. 26, City Council meeting. Smith was selected by the Galesburg City Council to fill the position after a nationwide recruitment and selection process, led by the recruitment firm GovHR.
Smith has worked in public administration for over 25 years, serving as the City Manager, Department Director, and Assistant City Manager in communities ranging from 5,000 – 460,000 in population, as well as managing budgets from $5 million to approximately $100 million. He has previously served as the City Manager in communities including the City of Creedmoor, North Carolina; Maquoketa, Iowa; and Junction City, Kansas. In addition, he served as the Director of General Services for Kansas City, Missouri. Smith brings expertise in municipal management, economic development, capital infrastructure planning, and operational sustainability. Through his extensive experience, he has developed skills and proficiency in budget development and coordination; community and neighborhood engagement; and implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Smith earned a Master of Public Administration from Northern Illinois University, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Urban History and Political Science from Elmhurst College. He is an ICMA credentialed manager, and is certified in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace.
“The City is very excited about Gerald Smith’s upcoming leadership. Our search was extensive, and our vetting was done with great deliberation,” said Mayor Peter Schwartzman. “Mr. Smith brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of municipal government that will enhance the City of Galesburg’s work to reach our council’s twenty-three ambitious strategic goals. Our excellent staff will definitely benefit from Mr. Smith’s energy, enthusiasm, and wisdom.”
Smith was selected at the conclusion of an extensive nationwide recruitment process, which began in April 2022, when former City Manager Todd Thompson announced his acceptance of a new position as the Rock Island City Manager. The recruitment process garnered 32 applications, which were narrowed by a rigorous review of qualifications by GovHR, as well as a multi-tier interview process.
“I look forward to joining the City of Galesburg as its next City Manager, partnering with and supporting the Mayor, City Council, City staff, and its many residents,” said Gerald Smith. “I also look forward to becoming an active member of the Galesburg community as we collectively work towards the ever-evolving evolution of such a rich and storied history.”
According to the resolution authorizing the appointment of Smith as city manager, his compensation will include an annual salary of $165,000, a $400 per month car allowance and a one-time relocation assistance payment of $10,000. He will receive the same health and retirement benefits as other exempt employees of the City of Galesburg.
Mr. Smith is scheduled to begin employment with the City of Galesburg within 30 – 45 days of approval of the employment agreement. More information on the proposed city manager employment agreement can be found on the city’s website.
