Mayor Tom Watson announced this morning that City Manager Bill Parrish informed the Board of Commissioners in a closed session last night that he will be retiring after 17 years of service.
Parrish holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Old Dominion University and a master’s degree in human resources management from Lindenwood University. Parrish started working for the City of Owensboro in August 2001 as the Sanitation Director after 24 years in the United States Marine Corps where he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. Parrish expanded his duties by managing the street and stormwater departments in addition to the sanitation department.
Parrish was selected by Mayor Watson and the City Commission for the City Manager position in December of 2007.
“My Colonel Bill is the epitome of a public servant, not only as our City Manager, but also when he wore the uniform of the United States Marine Corps. I truly hope Bill will take the time to do what he truly enjoys in retirement and I wish him the very best,” Mayor Watson said.
Parrish’s retirement will go into effect on July 31, 2018. The hiring process and search will begin immediately.