The City of Emporia has announced changes in leadership for two departments.
According to a news release from City Communications Manager Christine Torrens, Brian Silcott has been appointed as the interim Director of Public Works effective this coming Monday. Silcott replaces the now-former Public Works Director, Dean Grant, who led the department from 2019 until this week. Grant succeeded longtime Director Frank Abart, who departed Emporia to become Public Works Director for Bonner Springs that same year.
Silcott brings more than 20 years of city management experience to the position and also has a background in emergency services, having served as a firefighter, EMT and combat veteran before entering the public service profession. Of the appointment, City Manager Trey Cocking says, “Brian Silcott’s leadership experience and operational knowledge make him well-suited to serve as Interim Director as the City moves through this transition.”
Separately, the city has also announced a change in leadership for the building and neighborhood development department, as Deputy Director and City Zoning Specialist Justin Givens has been appointed to lead the department effective immediately. As part of his responsibilities, Givens will now oversee department operations and service delivery, including permitting, inspections, code enforcement, neighborhood initiatives, and coordination with development partners.
Of Givens’ elevation Cocking stated, “Our priority is maintaining consistent service delivery for residents, contractors, and stakeholders. Justin Givens’ experience and institutional knowledge position him well to lead the department during this transition.”
Givens is replacing Korey Krause, who led the department since its inception in December 2021.
The aforementioned release gave no information as to the reason for the changes in leadership and city management has declined a recorded interview with KVOE News at this time.
