BOULDER CITY – Boulder City searched nationwide to fill the newly-created Deputy City Manager, only to find the best person for the job was already working in City Hall. Community Development Director Michael Mays has been selected to fill the role starting today. Michael has twice served as Acting City Manager (October 2020-August 2021 and May 2024-April 2025) and has been serving as Acting Deputy City Manager since April 15, 2025.
City Manager Ned Thomas held multiple panel interviews with several highly qualified candidates in recent weeks, before offering the position to Michael. “I appreciated Michael’s willingness to serve in this capacity to ensure a smooth transition within the City Manager's Office,” Ned stated. “While settling into my role as City Manager, I have been fortunate to receive much valuable insight and support from Michael. Given his in-depth knowledge of the City and its employees, I am confident Michael will continue to serve the City well.”
Michael brings more than three decades of municipal planning experience. He started working for the City eight years ago this month, moving here from Illinois. He has a Master’s degree in Community and Regional Planning from Iowa State University, Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Buena Vista College, and certification through the American Institute of Certified Planners. Michael ushered Boulder City through the final months of the pandemic, was instrumental in the development of several historic preservation efforts, hired an Economic Development Coordinator to his team to support local businesses, and continues to improve customer service with the business community and residents.
Michael, his wife Jackie, and their children moved to Boulder City following his employment with the City in September 2017. “I am humbled and honored to be selected as Deputy City Manager and excited to serve the community permanently in this new position,” Michael said. “I look forward to continuing to work with City Manager Thomas, the City Council, residents, businesses and fellow employees to help implement the community’s goals.” Michael is a member of the Boulder City Sunrise Rotary Club and serves on the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce Board.
In 2024, City Council approved the creation of a Deputy City Manager position to support the City Manager in overseeing City operations and programs and implementing Council priorities. The role was left vacant over the past year to allow City Manager Ned Thomas (who started in April 2025) the opportunity to hire this position.
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