Flagstaff's city leadership is set for a change as City Manager Greg Clifton is hanging up his hat for retirement. Clifton's announcement came this week when he notified the City Council of his pending departure. According to the City of Flagstaff press release, Flagstaff is wasting no time and has already initiated a nationwide search to find a successor who will mesh with the high-country town's values.
Coming onboard in August 2019, Clifton brought over two decades of municipal experience to a table, where he spearheaded collaborative approaches across various city departments. Amidst fires, floods, and the pervasive pandemic, his guidance led to significant improvements in Flagstaff's infrastructure, economic strategy, and safety protocols. He was particularly instrumental in passing Proposition 441, which tackled community fire and flood concerns, and during his tenure, Flagstaff's financial stability seemed to weather the tempest of economic distress caused by global events, as reported by the City of Flagstaff.
As per the City of Flagstaff statement, Mr. Clifton's achievements include implementing a market-based compensation to ensure the city attracts and retains proficient employees. In 2020, he rolled out a financial initiative to manage a $131 million public safety pension liability, which projected a $76 million savings for the city. His focus on aligning City organization with community aspirations also led to the adoption of Priority Based Budgeting and an enhanced emphasis on capital improvements and sustainability.
"It has been the highest honor of my career to serve the Flagstaff community over the past several years. I am grateful beyond words to have worked with such an amazing staff and solid leadership within the organization, and within our elected councils," Clifton expressed in a sentiment echoed by Mayor Becky Daggett, who regarded him as the leader "Flagstaff needed". The transition period is expected to last until August 26, with Clifton aiding the city in an interim capacity until a new city manager takes over, as obtained by the City of Flagstaff.
To ensure a thorough recruitment process, the City has enlisted the services of Phoenix-based Duffy Group. Public Affairs Director Sarah Langley and Duffy Group Senior Executive Recruiter Wyatt Wagner are the points of contact for inquiries regarding the City of Flagstaff news and search efforts, respectively.
