Goodyear has hired two new directors to join its leadership team, the city announced Monday.
The city also appointed a new mayor, Wynette Reed, on Monday after Mayor Julie Cullins announced her resignation.
Wendy Bridges is the city’s new economic development director, having served as interim director since August.
Lori Gary, the city’s former economic development director, resigned last year over allegations of bullying and poor job performance.
departure:Goodyear’s economic development director resigns over allegations of verbal abuse and bullying
Bridges has worked in county and local government for over 25 years. Prior to joining Goodyear in 2022, he was Avondale’s business development manager. He also served as Avondale’s Director of Economic Development for 13 years.
According to a city news release, Bridges’ goals include bringing quality restaurants, retail and entertainment to the city. She will also focus on bringing new industries and job opportunities to the city.
Bridges is president of the Arizona Economic Development Association. She was honored by the organization in 2018 as her Economic Developer of the Year 2018. She is licensed in real estate and graduated with a degree in business administration from Yavapai College and a degree in public administration from Northern Arizona University.
Goodyear Hires New Water Commissioner
The city has also hired a new water director, a new position in the city. Barbara Chappell had her first day at work on Monday.
Chappell has been working on water management at the municipal level for over 20 years. She previously served as Deputy Commissioner of Public Works for Goodyear, where she served for seven years, before serving as Deputy Commissioner of Local Government for the Water Authority in Tempe. She previously held various roles in Avondale’s water department during her 14 years, according to a Goodyear news release.
Goodyear’s water services division includes water and wastewater, stormwater, environmental services and sustainability.
Next:Mayor Goodyear announces resignation
Mr. Chappell holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in civil/environmental engineering from Arizona State University. She is a certified professional civil engineer and a certified public administrator. She also holds a Grade 4 Certificate in Water Treatment, Water Distribution, Wastewater Collection, and Wastewater Treatment from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
