Ogden City Council Executive Director Bill Cook has announced his retirement, effective February 24, 2017, after more than 15 years with the City.
Prior to accepting the role of Council Executive Director in 2001, Cook worked as the Executive Office Administrator for Snohomish County, a county just north of Seattle, Washington with a population of about 700,000. He grew up in Pocatello, Idaho and graduated from Idaho State University, after serving in the Marine Corps. During Cook’s tenure with the City, Ogden has become home.
“I came here not aware of any connections to Ogden or Utah, but I have discovered that I have a lot of ancestors who were born, lived or died in Ogden,” Cook said. “Ogden isn’t just an incredible place to live. It means much, much more to me now.”
Cook intends to remain in Ogden and continue the tradition he started more than four years ago as co-chair of the College Town Coalition of wearing purple every day. He has plans to continue volunteering at Weber State University and to do volunteer consulting with the International City Management Association to assist city managers around the world. His first assignment is to speak at two conferences in China.
“I have many incredible memories from my time with the City. One of the most impactful was when the Diversity Charter and Diversity Commission were approved by the Council,” Cook said. “I was deeply moved by the comments made by residents.”
The Council has opened up a nation-wide search for Cook’s replacement.
“We are grateful for Mr. Cook’s service to the Council and Ogden. He has led out on many initiatives that have strengthened our community,” Council Chair Marcia White said. “We will miss working with him.”
Additional information:
•Council Executive Director Job Announcement: http://bit.ly/2jItl48
•Diversity Charter Signing Video: https://youtu.be/oDONrep0uNQ
For additional information, please contact Ogden City Council Executive Director Bill Cook, billcook@ogdencity.com; 801-629-8153.
###