Former Vandalia leader Wendt is new West Carrollton assistant city manager

“Dan will be a great addition to our leadership team,” Holloway said. “We’ve had the opportunity to work together in the past, and I’m confident that our complementary skill sets and strong working relationship will help us continue to move the city forward.”

West Carrollton last had an assistant city manager in 2003, according to a city spokeswoman. The position was re-established in the 2024 Personnel Classification and Rates of Pay Ordinance approved last November.

“With the retirement of Mike Lucking, who dedicated nearly nine years as our part-time economic development director and helped lay a solid foundation for our growth, we recognized the need for a full-time position to support the expanding needs of our community and business sector,” said City Manager Amber Holloway.

Holloway said with transformational projects like the River District and Whitewater Park upcoming, having a full-time assistant city manager focused on economic development and human resources “allows us to keep pace with our growth and ensure we’re positioned for both current and future success.”

West Carrollton had 35 applicants for the position, which was first posted on July 18 and remained open until filled. City officials conducted a first review of applicants on Aug. 5.

Wendt’s annual salary in the new role will be $120,120.

Wendt resigned from the Vandalia role in June after conflict with city council. That city authorized a $277,000 separation agreement with Wendt. Last month, Wendt was one of four finalists for the Oakwood city manager post that eventually went to Katie Smiddy.

Wendt, who earlier this year was awarded the Distinguished Early Career Award by the Ohio City/ County Management Association brings “a wealth of expertise in economic development, human resources administration, and municipal operations,” West Carrollton city officials said in a statement.

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“The community development projects along the riverfront are going to be transformative for the community and region,” Wendt was quoted as saying in the city statement. “I am proud to have the opportunity to support and to help execute decades of strategic positioning by community leaders while providing administrative support for our human resources functions.”