'Greenville will continue to flourish.' City manager to resign after 31 years in government

Macon Atkinson, Greenville News
Updated ·2 min read

This story was updated June 9 with details about McDonough's new position.

Greenville City Manager John McDonough is resigning after four years in Greenville and 31 years in local government, city spokesperson Beth Brotherton announced today in a press release.

“I am confident the city of Greenville will continue to flourish under your leadership,” McDonough told city councilmembers today, according to the press release. “I leave with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that our collective efforts have laid the foundation for a brighter future.”

McDonough's last day will be Aug. 11, according to the press release. He is moving to Centennial American Properties, a Greenville-based development group. During his time as city manager, McDonough led negotiations with the company for three years over the relocation of City Hall to the Bowater Building near Falls Park.

John McDonough is Greenville's city manager.
John McDonough is Greenville's city manager.

His departure follows that of Greenville Police Chief Howie Thompson, who announced his retirement effective June 30.

McDonough accomplished several major city projects during his tenure, including:

  • The completion and opening of Unity Park.

  • The Swamp Rabbit Trail Green Line Extension and crossings from downtown to Verdae Boulevard.

  • Organizational improvements in city departments including Planning and Development, Communications and Engagement and Engineering Services.

  • Adoption of a $36 million Neighborhood Infrastructure Bond program focused on road repaving, bridge repair, sidewalk construction and community center upgrades.

  • Development and adoption of an economic development strategic plan and launch of a national brand and marketing strategy surrounding entrepreneurs and innovation.

  • Acquisition, financing and design of a new Public Safety headquarters for police and fire departments and Municipal Court.

  • Adoption of the GVL2040 Comprehensive Plan and the overhaul of the city’s development code.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the city’s exceptional staff,” McDonough said in the press release. “Their dedication, expertise and tireless efforts have been instrumental in making our city one of the finest in the country.”

Mayor Knox White congratulated McDonough in the press release.

“All of us on City Council are grateful to have worked with a talented, devoted city manager like John McDonough. His administrative skills and work ethic are unsurpassed. He embraces council’s priorities and gets the job done. I especially appreciate his innovation in the creation of the Neighborhood Infrastructure Bond and his leadership as we opened Unity Park. We are glad John and his family are staying in Greenville and wish him the best.”

Macon Atkinson is the city watchdog reporter for The Greenville News. She's powered by long runs and strong coffee. Follow her on Twitter @maconatkinson. 

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Greenville city manager John McDonough to resign for new opportunity