Crothers to take over economic development duties for city

2/25/2011

BY IGNAZIO MESSINA
BLADE STAFF WRITER

Tom Crothers

Tom Crothers, Toledo’s director of public utilities, will take over as the city’s top economic development official, Mayor Mike Bell announced Friday.

Mr. Crothers will replace Dean Monske, deputy mayor for external relations, who has been hired to lead the Regional Growth Partnership.

“I don’t view Dean joining the RGP as a loss for the city, but as the extension of our efforts and the opportunity to continue working with him and RGP as partners,” Mr. Bell said. “The momentum we started with Dean will continue. I have confidence that Tom will pick up where Dean leaves off and continue collaborating with our partners — local, state, national, and international — to move Toledo forward.”

David Welch

Before being hired by Mr. Bell after his November, 2009, election, Mr. Crothers was previously executive director of the Downtown Toledo Improvement District and president of the Greater Downtown Business Partnership. He has also worked as chief of staff, finance director, deputy director of economic development, and executive officer for previous mayoral administrations in the city of Toledo.

David Welch, the city’s director of public service, will take over as director of public utilities, Mr. Bell said.

Ed Moore, the commissioner of streets, bridges and harbor, will be appointed director of public service.

David Pratt will be acting commissioner of streets, bridges and harbor, the mayor said.

Shirley Green

Salaries have not yet been determined for those employees changing status or departments, he said.

Mr. Bell also said Shirley Green, director of public safety, overseeing police and fire services, will take on an expanded role as deputy mayor for public safety and personnel as human resources and affirmative action are brought under her administration.

The executive leadership changes will take effect March 14.