BOULDER CITY – Boulder City’s new City Manager Ned Thomas officially takes the reins today. Mr. Thomas was selected from more than 100 candidates after a six-month national search with WBCP, Inc., an executive municipal recruiting firm. He has three decades of experience in municipal government and leadership roles.
Thomas served as City Manager in Milpitas, CA, a city north of San Jose with 81,000 residents, until last week. He travelled back and forth for the past few years while his family resided at their home in Henderson. “I have been waiting and watching for the right opportunity to become available in Southern Nevada, and I was thrilled to hear about the City Manager position in Boulder City,” said Mr. Thomas.
City Council interviewed two candidates late last year, offering the job to Mr. Thomas in November 2024. “Mr. Thomas has a valuable work history here in Southern Nevada, displays great leadership skills and understands the importance of partnerships,” said Boulder City Mayor Joe Hardy. “His knowledge of the region will benefit the residents of Boulder City greatly. I look forward to working with him.”
Mr. Thomas says he enjoys public service and he is looking forward to working with community leaders, residents, and staff. “Local government is closest to the people and delivers vital public services such as police and fire protection, streets and utilities, parks and recreation, planning and more,” Mr. Thomas said. “These services enhance quality of life, as well as ensure safety and comfort, effectively and efficiently.”
The City Charter requires the City Manager live in Boulder City. Mr. Thomas’s contract gives him one year to move. “I am excited about living and working in a close-knit community with such a unique and interesting history,” said Mr. Thomas. “Making personal connections is vitally important to my success as a City Manager, and I want to hear a variety of perspectives from Boulder City residents, business owners, employees, and community leaders. I plan to visit every department and facility in the City to meet the staff and hear their concerns. I will also visit community organizations and businesses to hear their thoughts on City services and operations.”
Cherlynn, his wife of 27 years, works as a long-term substitute teacher in the Clark County School District and currently teaches Spanish at Foothill High School. They have four adult children: the youngest, Julianna (18) will graduate from Foothill High School in May. Bretton (20) is currently working away from home and will start college in the fall; Whitney (21) is attending college; and Harrison (23) married and attending college. They have a Welsh Corgi named Willow.
Since May 2024, Community Development Director Michael Mays has been Acting City Manager, while also assuming the duties of his position. “I truly appreciate the hard work Michael has done over the past eleven months, working extra hours and weekends to keep pace with the additional workload,” said Mayor Hardy. “I thank him for his dedication and commitment to the residents of Boulder City.”
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