City of Indianola, IA

11/07/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 11/07/2024 16:11

Indianola City Manager Ben Reeves to Depart for New Leadership Role in Utah

Ben Reeves, the City of Indianola's city manager, will become city manager for the City of Eagle Mountain - the third fastest growing city in Utah with more than 65,000 residents.

His last day in Indianola is December 27, 2024.

"The knowledge and experience I have gained in Indianola has been invaluable, especially in relation to the redevelopment of the Downtown Square, which will undoubtedly provide me with the experience needed to develop the character, identity and unique placemaking which transforms a city into a community and a development into neighborhood," Reeves said. "I truly appreciate the opportunity to serve this beautiful city alongside so many dedicated people who work hard and take tremendous pride in making Indianola great."

Indianola Mayor Stephanie Erickson applauded Reeves for being an invaluable member of the community who brought dedication, passion and a true sense of commitment to Indianola.

"His contributions have not only moved us forward, but have also set a strong foundation for future growth and success," Erickson said. "Ben's leadership and warmth have left a lasting impression on all of us, and his departure is truly bittersweet. While we'll miss his presence deeply, we are incredibly grateful for the time we've shared and all he has helped us achieve together. We wish him nothing but the very best in this new chapter of his journey."

Reeves joined the City of Indianola in May 2022 as the city manager, where he oversaw various projects and planning endeavors, such as the Vision 2030 City Facilities Plan, Warren County-Indianola City Land Exchange Agreement and earning the prestigious "Main Street Designation," a national recognition for historic revitalization, achieved in partnership with the Indianola Downtown Merchants and Indianola Chamber of Commerce.

Other notable highlights during Reeves' career in Indianola include:

  • Finalized construction of the award-winning Indianola Water Resource Recovery Facility.
  • Completion of the final phases of the Historic Downtown Square Reconstruction Project, providing beautification and infrastructure improvement to the community's business district and gathering spaces.
  • Facilitated the adoption process of the Sixth Street Sub-Area Plan in 2022, helping spark a collaborative partnership with Warren County in a land exchange agreement earlier this year that will turn this plan into a reality.
  • Led a community engagement redesign of the South K Street Road Construction Project, saving the residents of Indianola $4.3 million.
  • Provided project oversight for the Indianola Industrial Park 3 infrastructure improvements in 2023 - a public-private partnership that expanded the City's industrial park by 60 acres.

"I have absolutely come to love the City of Indianola, its surrounding region and all it has to offer - from Simpson College to the National Balloon Classic, from the Des Moines Metro Opera to the Square," Reeves said. "The future of this community is bright, the growth waive has arrived, and whoever follows will be able to be part of a great team that will continue to elevate Indianola."

Information about the transition process and vacant position following Reeves' departure will be released at a future date.