Top 10 Town Managers 2026

David Harris, Town Manager at Town of Pagosa Springs, operates at the intersection of policy and execution, ensuring that civic intent is translated into disciplined, measurable action. He aligns council priorities with cross-functional delivery, bringing clarity to budgeting, capital planning and day-to-day operations. By balancing immediate service demands with long-term community outcomes, he reinforces a governance model that is responsive, accountable and built for sustained public value.

Jay Green is a seasoned municipal leader with over two decades of experience in local government and public service. As the Town Manager of Lenox, he is dedicated to fiscal transparency, infrastructure modernization, and community-driven economic development.

Michelle Kivela is a municipal leader with more than three decades of experience in local government. As Town Manager of Parker, Colorado, a full-service community of about 75,000 residents, she oversees municipal operations and works with elected leadership to guide priorities and services. Her career began in Texas municipalities before moving to Colorado, where she held leadership roles in Greenwood Village and Lone Tree, gaining experience across public safety, parks and recreation and city

Leon Gaumond Jr. carries vast experience in governance and politics with over 35 years in public service, and the last 24 of which were dedicated to town administration. As Town Manager of Weston, he oversees the day-to-day operations of municipal departments under his authority, including Public Safety, Public Works, Municipal Facilities & Municipal Finance among other direct services.

Rich Cappola is a results-driven municipal leader and professional engineer with extensive experience in public administration, infrastructure, and community development. Known for strategic leadership and collaborative problem-solving, he is passionate about building stronger communities, advancing sustainable growth, and mentoring teams. His work reflects a strong commitment to innovation, service, and operational excellence.

Steve Bartha is a respected municipal executive and community-focused leader with deep experience in local government, strategic planning, and public service. Known for collaborative leadership and operational excellence, he is dedicated to strengthening communities, mentoring emerging leaders, and driving innovative solutions that improve public administration, organizational culture, and long-term civic impact.

James Childers is a seasoned technology and business leader with extensive experience in customer success, operations, and strategic growth. With a strong background in education technology and consulting, he is recognized for building high-performing teams, driving innovation, and creating meaningful client relationships through collaborative leadership and results-focused problem solving.

John Jovan is a driven professional with experience spanning technology, business, and leadership. Known for a collaborative mindset and strong problem-solving skills, he is passionate about innovation, continuous learning, and building meaningful professional relationships. His work reflects a commitment to growth, operational excellence, and creating impactful solutions across evolving industries.

Russell Forrest is an experienced public sector and community development leader with a strong background in municipal planning, infrastructure, and local government operations. Recognized for collaborative leadership and strategic thinking, he is passionate about sustainable growth, strengthening communities, and driving initiatives that improve quality of life through thoughtful planning and public service.

Lily Stefano, Mayor and Town Manager of the Town of Medley, shares insights into leading one of the most structurally unique municipalities in the United States, where a compact residential population coexists with a powerful industrial base. She reflects on her leadership philosophy, governance reforms and the importance of trust, accessibility and operational efficiency in small-town administration.