09/03/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/03/2024 09:10
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 3, 2024
Edward E. Spears Officially Assumes Role as City Manager of Milton
Milton, FL - The City of Milton is pleased to announce that Edward E. Spears has officially assumed the role of City Manager as of August 30, 2024. A Pensacola native and proud graduate of B.T. Washington High School, he holds degrees in political science, history, and public administration from Florida State University. With nearly 30 years of experience in local government and nonprofit sectors, Spears brings a deep commitment to public service and is well-equipped to lead Milton's ongoing growth and development.
A Legacy of Community Development
Before joining Milton in 2018, Spears built a solid foundation in community development, economic revitalization, and public administration through pivotal roles in Pensacola and Tallahassee.
In Pensacola, he was instrumental in the development of the $42 million Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium and Community Maritime Park, transforming the waterfront into a vibrant community hub.
In Tallahassee, as a senior leader in the Neighborhood & Community Services Department, Spears managed five divisions with a combined budget of over $12 million. He also spearheaded the creation of the Community Human Services Partnership (CHSP) with Leon County and the United Way, earning federal recognition for this innovative initiative.
These experiences set the stage for Spears' accomplishments in Milton, where he established the Office of Economic Development and led transformative efforts through the Community Redevelopment Agency and other key projects.
Key City of Milton Achievements Under Spears' Leadership
Commitment to Community Engagement
Beyond his professional achievements, Spears remains deeply committed to community engagement and leadership. His active involvement in various community and educational boards reflects his dedication to the vitality and desirability of his hometown.
Personal Life
Edward is married to Stephanie Lawrence Yelton, the esteemed head women's basketball coach at the University of West Florida. Together, they are proud parents to five children: Hannah Simmons (Thomas), 27, a drama teacher and alumna of the School of Theater at Florida State University; Benjamin Spears, 22, a recent graduate of the University of Florida's School of Design, currently studying at Columbia University's Graduate School of Architecture; Bobby Yelton, 15, a freshman at Gulf Breeze High School; Toby Yelton, 12, a sixth grader at Woodlawn Beach Middle School; and Rocky, their energetic 4-year-old German Shorthair Pointer.
For more information, please contact the Public Information Officer at [email protected] or call (850) 983-5400, ext. 1046.
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