He also had a long stint as interim city manager in Huber Heights when that city had trouble finding a long-term city manager. Chodkowski said at the time he wouldn’t pursue the Huber manager job beyond the interim role.
Chodkowski submitted his Huber Heights resignation about two weeks ago, shortly before Huber Heights City Manager Rick Dzik was arrested on a drunken driving charge in central Ohio.
Last week Huber Heights City Council voted on two resolutions: one placing Dzik on leave and one to hire his interim replacement. John Russell, who serves as fire battalion chief for the Huber Heights Fire Division, was appointed interim city manager in a unanimous vote.
Chodkowski’s starting salary is $175,011.20, according to Kettering.
Kettering will now have two assistant city managers reporting to Matt Greeson, officials said. This second position that Chodkowski will take has been authorized, but left unfilled in recent years, according to the city.
Steve Bergstresser has been Kettering’s assistant city manager since 2014 and has worked for Kettering for more than 20 years. Bergstresser applied for the city manager’s job in 2022 before Greeson was hired.
“Kettering has numerous redevelopment initiatives and opportunities throughout the community,” Greeson said in an email. “With Ohio and the Dayton region seeing exciting new investments, we believe now is the time to fill this vital position.”
Chodkowski was one of three finalists for the job out of 72 submissions, said Mary Azbill, Kettering community information manager. Other finalists were Kettering Human Resource Manager Amanda Harold and Mariah Butler Vogelgesang, Centerville assistant city manager, records show.
Kettering’s “aim is to more closely manage and develop programs and initiatives to maintain and bolster the health and growth of the community,” according to a statement released by the city.
“Looking ahead,” Greeson said in the statement, “we anticipate that Bryan’s practical, working knowledge and proven track record of utilizing a wide array of economic development financing tools will positively impact not only the Kettering team but also our residents and businesses.
Kettering, the Dayton-area’s largest suburb at about 57,000 residents, lists 12 city government departments under the leadership of City Council and the city manager’s office — police, fire, public service, engineering, planning & development, economic development, finance, income tax, human resources, law, the volunteer program, plus parks, recreation & cultural arts.
“With the recent adoption of a new strategic plan, Bryan’s role will be instrumental in ensuring that our goals are completed in the most efficient and effective manner,” Greeson said.
As the year continues, one of Kettering’s main focuses in development will be updating its comprehensive plan, which Chodkowski will help lead, officials said.
This plan, in conjunction with Kettering’s strategic plan, “will establish new priorities and a focused vision regarding planning, community development, and economic development,” according to the city.
About the Authors
