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~ Springfield City Manager Jason Gage has announced his plans to step down from his position on January 11, 2025, after six years of dedicated service to the Queen City. Gage has been at the helm of the municipality during some of its most challenging times, including a global pandemic and a comprehensive planning process. He also spearheaded several major capital improvement projects that have left a lasting impact on the community.

One of Gage's most notable achievements during his tenure has been maintaining a strong financial position for Springfield. While many cities have faced budget cuts due to overspending and overestimating post-pandemic tax revenue, Springfield has continued to heavily invest in the community. This commitment has earned the city a prestigious AA1 bond rating from Moody's Investor Services Inc., which is the second-highest rating available.

Under Gage's leadership, Springfield has also seen significant improvements in crime reduction and poverty rates. Since 2020, there has been a 30% decrease in crime, and the poverty rate has dropped from 24.8% in 2018 to 20.3% in 2022.

Mayor Ken McClure praised Gage for his steady and patient leadership during turbulent times and forward-thinking decision-making during good times. "His leadership has led to Springfield being a pivotal force in the metro area's economic growth," said McClure. "The city has outperformed both the State of Missouri and the United States in job growth, income growth, real GDP, and reduced unemployment."

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Gage himself believes that now is the right time for him to move on as Springfield prepares to welcome a new mayor and potentially several fresh faces on the City Council. "With a new council may come shifted community priorities," he said. "Recognizing when it is time to embrace new challenges is often as crucial as celebrating past accomplishments, and I believe that time is now."

During his time as City Manager, Gage has implemented continuous improvement efforts through departmental plans with measurable outcomes. He also introduced Lean process improvements in the Building Development Services and Environmental Services Departments, with the aim of extending similar efficiency measures to all city functions.

Gage's leadership has also led to significant accomplishments for Springfield, including a thriving retail landscape with new additions like Costco, Buc-ee's, and a future Target new concept store. He has also secured over $43 million in direct appropriations from the Missouri General Assembly over the past three years and fostered trust-based relationships with local legislators.

Other notable achievements include implementing the visionary Forward SGF Comprehensive Plan, securing a long-term future for the Springfield Cardinals professional baseball team through a 15-year agreement and acquisition of Hammons Field, and adhering to commitments in capital improvement and transportation sales tax projects.

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Gage expressed his gratitude to the citizens of Springfield for their consistent support during his tenure. "It has been an honor and a privilege to lead this high-performing organization and serve the Springfield community over the past six years," he said. "I'm proud to have served alongside City employees who are not only highly qualified but also uphold the highest ethical standards."

Mayor McClure and City Council are currently working on a process for determining an interim City Manager and recruiting a permanent replacement. Gage's resignation marks him as the 13th City Manager in Springfield's history.

As Gage prepares to step down from his position, he leaves behind a legacy of transformational community projects such as Grant Avenue Parkway, Renew Jordan Creek, and numerous road, bridge, and drainage upgrades. His dedication to service, improvement, and community will be greatly missed by all those who have had the privilege of working with him.

Filed Under: Government, City

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