WASHINGTON, Ill. (25 News) – Washington’s new city administrator starts his new job on January 19.
City officials appointed Jeff Fiegenschuh to the position on Monday. As city administrator, Fiegenschuh will oversee the city’s budget and day-to-day operations, ensuring projects approved by the mayor and alderpersons are carried out.
Fiegenschuh tells 25 News that he plans to have a visible presence in Washington.
“I’ll be involved in the community and really make Washington my home and work very hard with our mayor, alderpersons, and our staff, and our community to move Washington forward,” he said.
Fiegenschuh has more than 20 years of municipal experience in Illinois, including roles in Princeton, Rantoul, and most recently as city manager in Rochelle.
Fiegenschuh says he was attracted to Washington because of its size, growth, and complexity. Washington’s population was nearly 16,000 in the 2020 census, almost double that of his previous community.
Fiegenschuh says his leadership philosophy centers on stewardship and ethical decision-making, guided by the Athenian Oath, which emphasizes integrity and financial responsibility.
“A good city manager surrounds himself with good people,” Fiegenschuh said, calling the administrator a leader who develops talent and guides the organization.
Fiegenschuh was hired in a national search led by consultant Arndt Municipal. Jim Arndt, the firm’s president and CEO, says residents can expect to see Fiegenschuh out in the community rather than confined to City Hall.
“They’re gonna see Jeff out and about, they’re gonna see Jeff at functions, they’re gonna see him — they’re gonna like Jeff. Jeff is engaging,” Arndt said. “He’s going to be a part of Washington. He’s not gonna be chained to his desk. He’s actually gonna be out and about, and I think they’re going to appreciate Jeff for that.
Fiegenschuh says his initial priorities will align with the needs identified by Mayor Lilija Stevens and the city’s alderpersons as he settles into his new role.
Washington’s new City Administrator Jeff Fiegenschuh (Courtesy of the City of Rochelle, IL)
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