Bodenmiller was appointed city manager during the onset of the Great Recession in 2008 that had devastating effects on jobs and housing nationwide and cuts to funding in Springfield by the state of Ohio.
He is credited with leading the city’s effort to reinvent itself with more than $400 million in downtown investment, despite the financial challenges and with his 10 years of service, is Springfield’s second longest serving city manager. Former City Manager Matt Kridler served for 20 years.
“I’ve been fortunate to have served with some of the most hardworking and dedicated people anyone could ask for,” Bodenmiller said. “In my tenure as city manager, we faced some challenging times. With a great deal of determination and the support of our residents we’ve come through some tough situations, and I couldn’t be more proud of the work we’ve done as a community.”
Following his retirement as city manager, Bodenmiller is taking over as Program Director for the Ohio Fire Executive program through the Ohio Fire Chief’s Association.
Heck was one of three internal and 18 external applicants for the job, which opened when Bodenmiller announced his retirement in August of 2018.
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Heck has served closely with Bodenmiller and is also part of the Economic Development team. The team has the authority to utilize various state and local incentives in an attempt to create jobs, retain current industries, and recruit companies to Springfield.
Heck is a lifelong resident of Clark County and a graduate of Wittenberg University. He and his wife Bailey have two children.
“I am excited to lead and impact change in the community,” Heck said. “My career path has always been centered around having a direct impact on the community. Certainly, there are challenges ahead, but I am a solutions oriented person. I want to do it together and we need to work as team in this community to be successful.”
Springfield Mayor Warren Copeland said Heck’s experience in public administration and vision for the future is the best fit to help lead Springfield in a positive direction.
“We are pleased that Bryan has accepted this challenge and we look forward to working together in service to the people of Springfield,” Copeland said.
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