09-04-2025
Springfield City Council announces finalists for city manager position
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Springfield City Council has revealed the three finalists in its search for a new City Manager following Jason Gage's departure. The candidates include David Cameron, Bob Cowell, and Brian Weiler, who will participate in a series of public engagements and interviews before the City Council makes a final decision.
The Finalists
David Cameron, the current City Administrator of Republic, Missouri, has extensive experience in local government, having served as City Administrator in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, before his current role. Under Cameron's leadership, Republic gained $1.4 billion in capital investments, 3,000 new jobs, and significant economic growth. He holds a bachelor's degree in organizational management from John Brown University. Ozarks First Investigates uncovered that Cameron was making more money in Republic than Springfield City Manager Jason Gage in 2023, despite Republic having a significantly smaller population.
Bob Cowell served as the City Manager of Roanoke, Virginia, from 2017 to 2024, bringing three decades of experience in public service. Cowell's career includes roles in urban planning, including leading the development of Roanoke's joint innovation district with Carilion Clinic and Virginia Tech. He holds a master's degree in urban planning from the University of Tennessee and a bachelor's degree in aeronautics from St. Louis University. Local media in Roanake reported on Cowell's sudden departure from the city in 2024, citing personnel issues at city hall as a possible reason for his resignation. Loveland, CO also named Cowell as a finalist for its open city manager position in September 2024.
Brian Weiler, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, currently serves as Director of Aviation at the Springfield-Branson National Airport. Weiler has more than 30 years of experience in public service, including roles at the Missouri Department of Transportation and several airports. He holds a master's degree in aviation safety from the University of Central Missouri and a bachelor's degree in professional aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Public Engagements
The finalists will visit Springfield from April 15-16 to participate in a series of events, including interviews with local stakeholders, government officials, and the media. The public will have an opportunity to interact with the candidates through virtual town hall meetings and community events.
Virtual Town Hall Meetings:
April 15, 6:30 p.m. – David Cameron
April 15, 7:00 p.m. – Bob Cowell
April 15, 7:30 p.m. – Brian Weiler
These will be broadcast live on and the City's Facebook page, where viewers can submit questions for the candidates.
Community Stakeholder Breakfast:On April 16, from 7:15 to 9:00 a.m., the finalists will meet with community leaders at The Old Glass Place. This breakfast will bring together various groups, including City boards, Greene County officials, and representatives from local organizations.
The Selection Process
City council will make its final decision following next week's public engagements. Citizens are encouraged to submit questions for the candidates ahead of time through the City's website or engage during the live broadcasts.
The council aims to make its decision soon after the interviews to ensure a smooth transition for the City of Springfield.
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