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ELGIN INTERIM CITY MANAGER
City Council unanimously voted last month to enter the next phase of Elgin leadership, looking to bring consistency back to operations with a new city manager that may stick around.
The city has reportedly given Robert Eads, appointed interim city manager Sept. 16, the option to stay in the position beyond his initial evaluation period, pending mutual agreement. Eads began meeting with department heads soon after assuming the role to outline his 90-day priorities, which he said include strengthening communication within city staff and ensuring accountability in daily operations.
“His main goals are ensuring the city is fiscally responsible, that staff are well informed and that operations remain transparent,” acting Community Services
“He’s made it clear that he wants to move things forward and not just hold the line while he’s here.”
— Stacey Osborne, acting community services director Director Stacey Osborne said. “He’s made it clear that he wants to move things forward and not just hold the line while he’s here.”
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Eads joins Elgin leadership following the departure of Isaac Turner and brief return of Development Services Director Beau Perry at the helm. He brings nearly two decades of experience in public administration, most recently serving two years as city manager of Loredo, and was previously considered for the Elgin position.
According to Osborne, Eads withdrew himself from consideration for personal reasons.
“This time, the timing was right, and he’s excited to be here. He’s very enthusiastic about Elgin,” Osborne said. “He would like to take that position long term.”
The appointment comes during a period of growth and transition for the city, which has struggled with turnover, organizational and administrative challenges. Entering the new fiscal year with tight budget, financial concerns remain a priority, according to Osborne.
She said the city recently underwent an extensive audit that found no evidence of misuse or criminal behavior regarding missing funds — though the report did highlight the need for better record keeping and consistency across departments.
“City managers come and go … there have been a lot of changes in leadership,” Osborne said. “Not having a permanent city manager can be really difficult because you don’t want to make decisions without knowing who’s going to be managing things in the long term.”
As interim city manager, Eads will serve as Elgin’s chief executive officer, responsible for carrying out council policies, directing staff and overseeing departments.
“He really wants to make sure that progress keeps happening,” Osborne said. “He’s made it clear to us that he will make things as transparent as possible, so we can ensure the public, our constituents and our staff are informed.”
