City Manager Finnie announces retirement

His last day will be April 24.

In a letter to Mayor Tom Carlson and the City Council, Finnie, 64, assured them it was not an easy decision to leave.

“I made a promise to myself and my family several years ago to retire while I, and hopefully the community, feel good about my performance,” he said. “I am really enjoying my work now more than ever, and it’s hard to think about not doing this for a few more years.”

Carlson has asked for a closed session after the regular council meeting Monday to discuss his recommendation of Deputy City Manager Bob Cumley to replace Finnie.

Finnie’s current annual salary is $153,752, but City of Springfield Director of Public Information Louise Whall said that could change when a new person is hired to fill the position. Cumley’s current salary is $133,851.

“If that is what they decide, I would say that’s an exceptionally good decision,” Finnie said, regarding the possible appointment of Cumley. “I have nothing but the highest regard for Bob. He’s a terrific manager and a terrific human being.”

Cumley, 62, was made deputy city manager earlier this year after serving as assistant city manager for 22 years. He began his career with the city of Springfield as director of personnel in 1973.

Carlson has asked Finnie to continue working part-time to help the city complete a few current projects, including the Heer’s building and College Station developments, the Commercial Street Entertainment District and the Jordan Valley Innovation Center.

“I think I’m open to that idea,” Finnie said. “The more I’ve talked to him, the more I thought about how I enjoy it, and it would be nice to see some of those (projects) close.”

Finnie moved to Springfield in 1990 to take the city manager position after working in administrative positions for the cities of Charlotte, N.C., and Nashville, Tenn.

“It’s been my great fortune to have worked in three great cities,” he said in his letter to council. “I would put our management up against both these cities, and Springfield comes out ahead.”

Finnie has played a major role in long-range planning for the city in his work on the transformation of downtown, the creation of Jordan Valley Park and further development of the Vision 20/20 plan.

Growth for the city has been a tremendous opportunity – and a challenge, he said.

“Keeping up with the growth and maintaining the great quality of life is a huge challenge, and it will continue to be one."

Carlson and Cumley were unavailable for comment.

Click here to read Finnie's letter to council.