Welch names new city administrator
St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch has appointed Assistant City Administrator Rob Gerdes to serve as the next city administrator.
The appointment is subject to city council approval, Welch announced Tuesday. Gerdes will replace Interim City Administrator Tom Greene, who will resume his duties as assistant city administrator. Greene served as the assistant city administrator under the Rick Kriseman administration and has been serving in the interim role since Welch took office in January.
“Rob has proven a valuable leader during his time as assistant city administrator. After an extensive national search, we found he had the best skills, experience and knowledge of our city government to effectively take on this key leadership role,” Welch said in a news release.
“I want to thank Interim City Administrator Tom Greene for faithfully and effectively undertaking the duties of his office for the past three months. Tom has been an incredible asset to my administration, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.”
Gerdes, who is known for trying to combat the affordable housing crisis in the city, will continue his leadership on issues related to housing affordability. Meanwhile, Neighborhood Affairs Administrator James Corbett will be taking on an increased collaborative role to assist with affordable housing initiatives.
Tom Greene. File photo.
The city garnered interest from over 30 applicants during the national search. Greene, who acted as the assistant city administrator since 2018 did not pursue the permanent position.
In the assistant administrator role, Greene will use his expertise in budget and finance to guide the city’s budget process and other fiduciary obligations.
