City Council to appoint Vancouver’s next City Manager

City Council to appoint Vancouver's next City Manager

August 8, 2024

After conducting a national search that included input from the community and employees, the Vancouver City Council will vote to appoint Lon Pluckhahn as Vancouver's next City Manager on Monday, Aug 12. This appointment is effective at 5:01 p.m. on Oct. 11.

"With his extensive experience in city administration and a proven track record of leadership, the Council is confident that Lon is uniquely qualified to lead Vancouver now and into the future," said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. "His understanding of the community and his commitment to transparency, community engagement and innovation will be invaluable as we continue to address the needs and aspirations of our residents."

Pluckhahn has 30 years of local government experience, including extensive experience in city management. Before his current role as one of Vancouver's deputy city managers, a role he has held since 2021, he served as the City Manager of Marion, Iowa, for nearly 15 years. He graduated from Iowa State University, where he earned master's degrees in both Community and Regional Planning and Public Administration. He also has a bachelor's degree in political science with an emphasis on public administration. He currently serves as President of the International City/County Management Association. A full bio can be read on the City website.

"Vancouver is a growing city with immense promise and potential, and I am deeply honored to serve as its next City Manager," said Lon Pluckhahn. "I look forward to collaborating with the community, City Council, and our talented staff to help build on our current momentum with a focus on sustainability and community resiliency."

Lon's experience, knowledge, and strengths built over 30 years in local government were a good fit for the expectations identified in the candidate profile developed by the Council with community and employee input.

Over the next few months, the current City Manager Eric Holmes, will work with the Council and Pluckhahn to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Details of Pluckhahn's contract can be found in the Council packet posted on the City website. Vancouver operates under a council-manager form of government where the City Council appoints a City Manager to serve as the City's chief executive. The role and responsibilities of the City Manager are defined in the City Charter and the Revised Code of Washington.

Media contact: Laura Shepard, Communications Director, [email protected]