Nixa makes promotion for top planning, development role

The city of Nixa is promoting from within to fill a department head opening.

Scott Godbey, effective Nov. 14, is the city's pick for director of the Planning and Development Department, according to a news release. He's worked as a planner for Nixa since August 2018.

"I have been fortunate to learn from my predecessors in the role, and I’m excited for the projects we are taking on to plan for the future of Nixa’s development and growth," Godbey said in the release.

Assistant City Administrator Cindy Robbins has held the role on an interim basis since May 2022, when previous leader Garrett Tyson exited. Hired in late 2020 by the city, Tyson has worked since May as economic development specialist for Associated Electric Cooperative Inc., according to his LinkedIn profile.

“Mr. Godbey has proven knowledge, skills and experience, and we are excited to see him serve Nixa in the role of department director,” Robbins said in the release. “We’re always thrilled when we are able to promote from within, especially when we have people like Mr. Godbey who are eager to learn and progress in their career by taking on new responsibilities and developing their leadership skills.”

The salary range for the role was posted as $74,568-$83,325, according to the release.

As department director, Godbey will oversee seven employees, administer planning and zoning policies, and guide enforcement of ordinances, subdivision regulations, development application procedures and building code regulations.

The city is seeking applications for the planner role Godbey is vacating, according to the release.