BROOKINGS The city of Brookings has hired Johnny Mays as its new deputy city manager. He will start his job on Oct. 14.
Mays is coming to Brookings from Columbia, Mo., where he has worked as director of facilities management for Boone County since April 2023. Prior to that, Mays worked 12 years in various supervisor and manager roles for the city of Lenexa, Kan.
City Manager Paul Briseno said Mays will add immediate value to the city.
Johnny has more than 20 years of progressive experience in local government. He has dedicated his career to working as a public servant in parks and recreation, public works, and facilities management, Briseno said. His desire to learn and grow in his education demonstrate his commitment to continuous improvement. Im excited for him to join our team.
Mays replaces Jacob Meshke, who resigned in May to becomecity manager in Indianola, Iowa.Mays was selected for the position from approximately 65 applicants following a nationwide search.
In his role, Mays will work directly with Briseno to advance strategic priorities, provide executive oversight to departments, lead citywide projects, guide intergovernmental relations, and serve as acting city manager when needed.
I am extremely excited and thankful for this opportunity to join a dedicated team of public servants, Mays said. Brookings is an amazing and thriving community, and I am honored to be a part of the organizations fabric. I look forward to working with the governing body, the city staff, and community stakeholders. I appreciate the confidence shown in me by the city manager, and I am ready to work tirelessly for our community.
Mays earned his doctorate in public administration and public policy from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. He has a master of liberal studies degree with a concentration in political leadership and public service from Fort Hays State University and a bachelor of arts degree in organizational management from Ashford University in Arizona. In addition, he completed the Arizona State University Certified Public Management Program and the Emerging Leaders Academy at the University of Kansas Public Management Center.
Briseno said the first few months of Mays employment will be focused on establishing relationships and learning more about the organization and community.
Leave a Reply