“Obviously we owe Mr. Townsend a huge debt of gratitude for leading us through the last 15 years,” Mayor Jeff Sanner said in a statement. “With his retirement announcement, we decided to search for a new leadership style with specific skill sets to bring the future of West Carrollton to fruition, and we believe we’ve done that with Ms. Holloway.
“We interviewed several worthy candidates, but Amber’s economic development background combined with her municipal operations experience was just what we were looking for to take this community to the next step in our vision.”
Holloway, who has served as Vandalia’s assistant city manager since January 2018, previously served as Vandalia’s city planner from March 2015 to January 2018. Prior to that she was a planner for Miami-based engineering and planning firm Corradino Group from March 2014 to March 2015.
West Carrollton officials said Holloway has played “a central role” in Vandalia’s economic and community development efforts and directly manages the planning, communications, and information technology functions.
“In this role, she has secured more than $1.5 million in grant funds to support business attraction and expansion; developed and launched a commercial facade improvement program and small business grant program; and served as the project manager on the rewrite of the Vandalia’s planning and zoning code, comprehensive plan, and city rebranding project,” West Carrollton city officials said. “Her commitment to this region, passion for community building, and economic development acumen leave her well-positioned to serve as the city manager for the city of West Carrollton.”
Vandalia City Manager Dan Wendt told this news outlet Holloway has exhibited “an exceptional commitment” to improving livability in Vandalia.
“She has an incredible work ethic, and a wonderful public service approach,” Wendt said. “Ms. Holloway is universally respected on our team, and she will leave big shoes to fill.”
Wendt said Vandalia is evaluating all options to ensure continuity of operations and strong customer service.
Holloway earned a bachelor’s degree in city and regional planning from Ohio State University and a master’s degree in public administration from Wright State University.
She is a certified planner through the American Planning Association and serves as the vice president of the Ohio City/County Management Association.
Holloway, in a statement, said she is “honored and humbled” to be chosen as the next city manager and excited for the opportunity to serve West Carrollton’s residents.
“I look forward to building on the momentum and immense opportunities in West Carrollton, including the River District and the Whitewater Park,” she said.
Staff Writer Aimee Hancock contributed to this report.
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