Hilliard City Council has voted unanimously to bring in Joshua Rauch, currently the city manager of Riverside, Ohio, as Hilliard’s second city manager. Under a contract that carries a $255,000 base salary, Rauch is slated to start on April 20, stepping into the job previously held by Michelle Crandall, who exited in 2025 to become chief member services officer at the International City/County Management Association.
Council vote and terms
The council’s decision came at a Feb. 12 special meeting, according to Columbus Business First. Local coverage in the Westerville News reports that Rauch’s employment package includes a $255,000 base salary and confirms his April 20, 2026, start date.
Rauch's background
Rauch has about 15 years of experience in municipal government and has served as Riverside’s city manager since 2021, according to the City of Hilliard. “I am honored and excited to join the Hilliard community and to work alongside elected officials, staff, and residents to achieve meaningful results,” Rauch said in the city’s announcement.
What he did in Riverside
In Riverside, Rauch earned strong performance reviews, and in 2024 city leaders approved a new contract that set his annual salary at $160,000, the Dayton Daily News reported. That report noted that council members praised his fiscal management and his work on strategic planning during his tenure.
Why it matters for Hilliard
Rauch will be only the second person to serve as Hilliard’s city manager since the city shifted to a council manager form of government, so council members were not exactly treating this like a routine hire. City officials said they relied on community feedback and a national search firm as part of the process. According to the City of Hilliard, finalists were identified with help from Raftelis, and residents were invited to meet the candidates before council made its choice.
Next steps
Rauch’s first day on the job is scheduled for April 20, 2026, and the hiring resolution and contract terms are expected to appear in public records following the meeting. For the city’s full announcement and additional details, see the City of Hilliard’s news release and the coverage from Columbus Business First.
