It’s Unanimous; Longview City Council Selects Gregory

The Longview City Council is pleased to announce that Bob Gregory has accepted their offer to serve as Longview’s next City Manager. Gregory will assume his new post with the City upon the retirement of Ed Ivey who has served as the City’s top administrator for the last 18 years.

“Those that interviewed the finalists for the City Manager position felt he was the stand out candidate because of his strong interpersonal skills, past accomplishments, and deep commitment to our community” said Mayor Mark McCrady. “The other candidates were very capable and personable – but the unanimous conclusion was that Bob was the best fit for our community.” Noted for being very approachable, fair, and well reasoned in his decisions, Bob received overwhelming support from citizens and community leaders. “With his exceptional blend of technical expertise, communication skills, and personal integrity, we are confident he will do great things for the City and the residents of Longview.”

Gregory started his public service career as a Utilities Engineer for the City of Corvallis. He moved to Cowlitz County in 1984 to serve as the County’s Water Resources Engineer, and in 1988 he moved to the City of Kelso to serve as their Public Work’s Director. Ten Years later Longview City Manager Ed Ivey, who had long been impressed with Gregory’s abilities, offered him the Public Works Director position with the City. A year later, Ivey appointed Bob to serve as his Assistant City Manager.

Gregory came to the City at a time when Kelso and Longview were exploring the feasibility of providing shared services in the areas of parks and recreation, public works, police and fire. Bob’s understanding of both organizations was a great asset when the two agencies worked through the details of consolidating services in the areas of parks and recreation and public works. City Manager Ivey stated, “Bob assumed a tremendous amount of responsibilities when he came to Longview. He was responsible for Public Works, served an important role in Economic Development activities, and I quickly gained confidence in his management capabilities. He’s very much a team player, and has proven himself to be quite capable. I am sure he will continue to provide Longview with strong leadership.”

“I am truly humbled by the confidence the City Council has given me to lead the City staff in our responsibility to continue to deliver the quality of life and services that our citizens deserve and expect.” commented Gregory. “We have some monumental challenges to face in the community, but I know the community spirit and commitment is here to overcome the adversity we have experienced in the last several years and I really believe the best is right in front of us.”

“We have very skilled and competent employees who are committed to the community and take great pride in the work they do and the services they provide. I will do everything in my ability to meet the expectations of the City Council, staff, and the community.”