‘Big shoes to fill’: Champaign City Manager plans to retire next month

Dorothy Ann David
Dorothy Ann David, Champaign City Manager


CHAMPAIGN
– The Champaign City Manager announced her plans to retire from her position Wednesday.

Dorothy Ann David started with the city in 1994 as Neighborhood Services Director, was
promoted to Assistant City Manager in 2007 and has served as City Manager since April 2013.

Prior to working for the City of Champaign, David served as the Community and Neighborhood
Services Director for the City of Muskegon, Michigan, Community Development Program
Manager for the City of Kansas City, Kansas, and as a Public Management Intern for the City of
Kansas City, Missouri.

“I am extremely grateful to have served this community for the past 30 years, working with the many City employees who selflessly care for our City. It has been an honor to serve with them and making a positive impact on the lives of others,” she said in a statement.

“I am also appreciative of the support and leadership of the City Council members with whom I have worked during my time with the City. Champaign is a special place because of their commitment and stewardship.”

Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen wished David well in her retirement and thanked her for her service.

“Thanks to her professionalism, Champaign is recognized nationally as a leader in government efficiency, ingenuity, and responsibility. Dorothy leaves big shoes to fill in the City organization, but her hard work, dedication, and forethought has positioned the City for continued future success even as we move to this next chapter,” she said in a statement.

In a news release, the city said that David has played a key role in many projects, policies, and initiatives including adopting balanced budgets and maintaining its AAA bond rating.

“David was also instrumental in leading the city through the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.” 

She plans to officially retire on December 20. The City Manager is appointed by the Champaign City Council. More information about the appointment of the next City Manager will be shared in the coming weeks.

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