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Leadership Appointments: June 18 – 24, 2026

June 24, 2026

Virginia — George D. Thomas has been named president and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, effective August. Thomas brings more than 25 years of experience in economic development, technology, workforce development and public-private partnerships. In his new role, he will oversee Fairfax County’s business attraction, investment and economic growth strategy.

Colorado — Mark Welte has been appointed chief technology officer for Pueblo County. His previous experience includes leadership roles with private firms and Colorado State University Pueblo. He holds both an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Colorado State University Pueblo and will oversee the county’s technology operations, infrastructure and information systems strategy.

Pennsylvania — Rep. Kerry Benninghoff has been appointed to the Public-Private Partnership Transportation Board. In the role, he will help evaluate transportation infrastructure partnerships involving private-sector financing, design, construction and operations for highways, bridges and transit projects. Benninghoff brings extensive legislative experience in transportation policy and funding, including work on statewide transit and infrastructure initiatives.

California — Kara Reddig has been appointed city manager for the city of Lodi, bringing more than 20 years of experience in California local government. As city manager, she will oversee city operations, implement city council priorities and guide strategic initiatives supporting Lodi’s growth and community services.

Arizona — Eric Bejarano has been appointed city manager for the city of Safford after serving as assistant city manager and, most recently, interim city manager. In those roles, he provided executive oversight of municipal operations and supported a budget exceeding $100 million. He holds a doctorate in organizational leadership, a master’s degree in counseling and human relations, and a bachelor’s degree in justice systems policy and planning.

Washington — Andrea Lehner has been appointed city administrator for the city of Snoqualmie. She brings 12 years of local government experience, including economic development leadership roles in multiple King County cities, and holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Washington Evans School of Public Policy & Governance. In her new role, she will oversee the city’s day-to-day operations and coordinate work across all departments and programs.

Virginia – Dr. Kevin A. Catlin has been selected as Chesterfield County’s next county administrator, effective Aug. 24. He previously served as county administrator for Boone County, Illinois, and city manager of Springfield, Michigan, with experience spanning fiscal stewardship, capital planning, economic development, public safety and organizational modernization.

Tennessee — Christi David has been appointed executive director of Jackson Parks and Recreation after serving as park operations manager since 2020. David has led major capital improvement projects, secured grant funding and helped advance the department’s long-term strategic plan. She holds a Master of Social Work from Union University, is a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive, and currently serves as president-elect of the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association.

Strategic Partnerships

Strategic Partnerships, Inc. (SPI) is a nationally focused business development, government affairs consulting, and procurement consulting firm. Since 1995, the SPI team has offered a more comprehensive suite of services than any other firm in the country. SPI’s capabilities include expertise in the areas of Public-Private Partnerships and the State, Local, and Education (SLED) market.

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