The Anniston City Council has recently conducted interviews for the critical role of City Manager, with two candidates presenting their qualifications and visions for the future of the city. These interviews took place on two separate dates: Interview #1 on February 7, 2025, with Kevin Owens and Interview #2 on February 10, 2025, with David Arnett.
Interview #1: Kevin Owens
The first interview with Kevin Owens commenced on February 7, 2025. Owens opened the session by elaborating on his extensive background in public administration. Owens holds a Master’s in Public Administration and has accrued a wealth of experience over nearly three decades. He started his career in the late 1990s and spent over 20 years working within the City of Birmingham, where he served under four different mayors in various capacities, including City Manager and City Administrator.
During the interview, Owens was asked to outline his approach to managing city finances. He responded, “Funding is vital, and prioritizing it involves a meticulous examination of both existing resources and potential new sources.” He emphasized the necessity of strategic planning to identify and secure funding opportunities, thereby ensuring the city’s financial stability.
Owens also addressed questions concerning his strategies for budget management, particularly in times of financial constraints. He shared insights into his past experiences where he successfully implemented operational efficiencies in Birmingham, highlighting his ability to prioritize essential city services while managing limited resources.
Moreover, Owens stressed the importance of transparency and community engagement in the budgeting process, advocating for open communication with both the council and the citizens. He stated, “Creating a budget is not merely a fiscal exercise; it is a collaborative effort that requires input from the community to reflect their needs and priorities.”
Interview #2: David Arnett
The second interview took place on February 10, 2025, featuring David Arnett, who began by providing a detailed overview of his diverse professional journey. Hailing from Pell City, Alabama, Arnett joined the United States Navy at the age of 17, gaining valuable experience in aviation maintenance before transitioning into public works and building inspections.
Arnett’s career has spanned various roles, including his tenure as the Building Official in Trustville, where he was instrumental in developing the city’s property maintenance ordinance. He articulated a clear vision for Anniston, stating, “My goal as City Manager would be to foster a strong sense of community and ensure that every citizen’s voice is heard in our governance.”
In discussing budgetary concerns, Arnett drew upon his experiences in Trussville, where he had successfully increased the revenues of the building department from approximately $300,000 to $1.5 million. He emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and the pursuit of grants to support community development initiatives.
Arnett also highlighted the significance of engaging with citizens through town hall meetings, asserting that regular interactions with the community could lead to more informed decision-making by the council. He remarked, “It is essential that we create platforms for dialogue with our constituents; their feedback is invaluable in shaping our policies and priorities.”
Both Kevin Owens and David Arnett presented compelling cases for their candidacy as City Manager of Anniston. Their interviews highlighted their respective qualifications, experiences, and visions for the city, providing the council with critical insights as they move toward a decision.
As the Anniston City Council reflects on these interviews, the local community eagerly anticipates the selection of a new City Manager who will lead the city into a new era of growth and development. The council’s commitment to transparency and community engagement throughout this process underscores its dedication to serving the citizens of Anniston effectively. In the coming weeks, the council will announce its decision and outline the next steps for the city’s leadership.
