The Ogden City Council appointed Janene Eller-Smith as the Council’s new Executive Director during the March 21st City Council meeting.
Eller-Smith has worked for Ogden City for more than 21 years, serving in the Council Office for the past eight years as a policy analyst and, more recently, as Deputy Director. She holds a Juris Doctor degree and a Master’s in Public Administration from Brigham Young University.
Prior to working for the City, Eller-Smith was in private legal practice. She also served as a prosecuting attorney for Layton City.
“From the time I learned there were actually careers in ‘public administration’, I knew that was what I wanted to do,” Eller-Smith said. “I’ve loved the work I’ve been involved in throughout my career, especially with Ogden City and the Council Office. I am looking forward to the challenges that come with this position and to assisting Council members in accomplishing their respective goals.”
Eller-Smith is replacing Bill Cook, who served as the Council’s Executive Director for more than 15 years. On January 20th, Cook announced his retirement effective February 25th. The Council launched a nation-wide search for his replacement.
The selection process involved interviews with an initial screening committee that consisted of representatives from various local organizations. Finalists were selected and interviewed with the City Council. The Executive Director position was vacated before the selection process could be completed, and the City Council appointed Eller-Smith as Interim Council Executive Director.
“We appreciate the incredible experience Ms. Eller-Smith brings to the table and are eager to work with her in this new capacity,” Council Vice Chair Richard Hyer said. “Ms. Eller-Smith’s ideas and experience will help the Council better serve our constituents and fulfil our responsibilities.”
Additional information:
For additional information, please contact Ogden City Council Executive Director Janene Eller-Smith, JaneneEller-Smith@ogdencity.com; 801-629-8153.
###