Medford's city administration has undergone a significant reshuffle with new appointments filling key leadership positions. The city has warmly welcomed Debbie Grady as the new Assistant City Manager, bringing with her a robust history of leadership and experience in public service. Grady, a figure grounded in public administration and community relations, most recently held the position of Executive Director at South Sound 911 in Tacoma, WA, before joining Medford's government force on February 18.
With a knowledge base rooted in administration, specifically in Organizational Leadership, Grady is well-equipped to take on the challenges and responsibilities of her new role. According to an official city release, she is "eager to support Medford’s mission while serving the Southern Oregon community." These words echo the sentiment of commitment that is expected from someone stepping into such a critical position.
The City Manager’s office also heralds the arrival of Warren Ng as the first Economic Development Director, a post newly carved out by none other than City Manager Robert Field. Ng’s tenure began on March 3, along with Michelle King, who has been announced as the new Planning Director. Considered an expert in smelling out high-growth opportunities and cultivating them into enterprise-level blossoms, Ng boasts a versatile background that spans data-driven leadership, innovation, and venture investment.
King steps into her role backed by substantial expertise in long-range planning, project management, and collaborating with stakeholders. She has facilitated climate sustainability programs for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in New York and significantly contributed to revising Santa Cruz’s General Plan. In a recent update from the City of Medford, it was highlighted that King, who holds a Master’s in Urban Planning, is adept in environmental compliance and regional planning, essential capabilities for navigating through the multiple layers of urban development complexities of Medford.
