This team serves as the central hub for the city’s many departments. Led by City Manager JR Wilson, who is appointed by the City Board of Directors, the administration is responsible for the overall direction of the City, overseeing all programs, operations, and the annual budget. The team's duties are vast and varied, encompassing the Finance Department, which handles all city-related payments, disbursements, and payroll, and the Human Resources department, which manages the city's records, archives official documents, and administers employee services and benefits. They are the essential link between the public and the services they rely on, working to assure that all operations are conducted effectively and with the public’s best interest at heart.

When asked to summarize the core of what his team does, City Manager JR Wilson put it simply and profoundly, stating that its mission is one of public service. “What we really do is serve our citizens,” Wilson explained. He emphasized that their role goes beyond just managing city services. “We’re going to do our best to guide people in the right direction if they need information or they need a little help. We’re here to try to help them the best we can.” This commitment to helping residents navigate through options that answer their needs is a guiding principle for the entire team.

This sentiment is echoed by Assistant City Manager Daniel Shelman, who adds another crucial layer to their mission. "We're here to serve the citizens; we're here to make sure that the city services are provided to all the residents and visitors of Hope," Shelman said. He also stressed their deep sense of fiscal duty, noting, "We strive to be good custodians of taxpayer funds." This dedication to both service and responsibility ensures that the city is managed with care and integrity.

The work of the City of Hope’s administrative team is critical for the health, safety, and progress of the entire community. They are the planners, the facilitators, and the problem-solvers who keep the city moving forward.

Join SWARK.Today as we salute the administrative team at the City of Hope for their unwavering commitment and the vital work they perform every day. Their collective effort makes a tangible difference in the lives of everyone in the community. Their names are as follows:

City of Hope Administrative Team:

• JR Wilson – City Manager
• Daniel Shelman – Assistant City Manager
• Cindy Clark – City Clerk and Finance Director
• Michelle Weaver – Accounting Tech
• Kathy Kristich – Accounting Tech

Stay tuned for our next SWARK Service Spotlight to learn more about dedicated public servants like these.