Image provided by the City of Bloomington
NORMAL, Ill. – The City of Bloomington announced the appointment of Jeff Jurgens as the new City Manager, effective May 6, 2024. He will succeed Tim Gleason, who will be stepping down a day before.
Jurgens served on Bloomington’s Corporation Council for almost a decade, although he was still in private practice. In 2020, he “came in house,” meaning he left his law firm and joined the corporate council.
“Last year, the second Deputy City Manager position was created, and I was approached with the opportunity,” Jurgens said. “So, I’ve been serving in the same position ever since.”
As Deputy City Manager, Jurgens spearheaded the reorganization of Public Works and transformed it into three streamlined departments. This strategic move was aimed at optimizing resources, enhancing accountability and positioning the City to effectively address its infrastructure needs.
His priorities in the new position are set to begin with the City’s infrastructure.
“Housing is a big priority for the city and making sure that we are being the most efficient and effective city government that we can be,” Jurgens said.
Jurgens wants to assist the business community and settle residents’ needs within the city. He said one of his primary responsibilities as city manager is to “help oversee the day-to-day operations of the city.” He also supervises internal functions such as human resources, IT and legal services.
“At the end of the day, the position is supposed to fulfill the vision and direction of the City Council. I will work with the City Council to help develop their visions for the City and achieve those,” Jurgens said.