| Middletown City Manager Judy Gilleland Speaks With MiddletownUSA.com |
| Monday, August 31, 2009 9:05:18 AM - Middletown Ohio |
Interview By:Randy Lewis
What did you do prior to becoming the city manager?
I began my career in Tipp City working on various functions but most notably in working on their Historic District. Then on to Lebanon as Asst. to the City Manager, Recreation Director, Purchasing Agent, Personnel Director, and City Planner. Then on to Centerville for many different department head functions in addition to being Assistant City Manager. Then to Pickerington, Ohio as City Manager. Then Middletown!
What are the main responsibilities as Middletown's City Manager?
As Middletown City Manager, I serve essentially as the Chief Executive Officer. Responsible for the city functions on a daily basis. Working with each department head to effectuate the policies as determined by the Mayor and Council. Ensuring a high quality of government for the residents and businesses of Middletown.
Middletown has a large number of section 8 housing, in fact the most in Butler County. What are your thoughts on Middletown's current section 8 situation and what do you think needs to happen?
We are working on the Section 8 issue. We now have a contract in place with the consultant. We are working on getting a system of housing inspections in place that will ensure quality housing for the clients. We are also enforcing the criminal background checks for both tenants and landlords to ensure that the program dollars are not supporting criminal activity.
What are the biggest challenges you face in managing the city of Middletown?
The biggest challenge in managing Middletown is changing a system that has been in place for decades. Notwithstanding the lack of funds, an issue that every community faces, we are attempting to change the way in which we operate as a government. It takes constant effort to keep all of the cars on the train headed in the same direction.
What kind of goals/plans do you have for the future of the city?
Goals/plans: I would direct you to Agenda 2009, which are the plans for this year. Mayor, council and I established these goals during our retreat earlier this year. My personal goal is to provide high quality government for the residents and businesses of Middletown.
Agenda 2009 City Of Middletown
What is your favorite thing about the Middletown community?
My favorite thing about Middletown is that we have it all right here. We have great restaurants, high quality medical care, quality arts, a strong religious base, great educational opportunities for both children and adults. If you choose to venture out of town, we are minutes away from expanded retail shopping opportunities and a variety of other great restaurants and entertainment.
Is there anything else you'd like to say to the citizens of Middletown?
The community of Middletown has been very supportive and encouraging to me personally and professionally. I believe that the residents want to live in a safe community with quality services and the city staff and I work hard to ensure this, given our limited dollars. We are headed in the right direction and continue to make strides towards improving the community.
I love living in Middletown, we have a great future as a community. I'm working hard to ensure that we stay on track!
Judith A. Gilleland
City Manager
City of Middletown
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