MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The City of Morgantown will soon be looking for a new city manager. Kim Haws announced in a press release he plans to retire soon, although he did not provide a specific date.
“As I move into retirement, I will never forget the invaluable lessons learned and the cherished memories created alongside our remarkable staff and community leaders,” Haws said in a news release.
Haws was officially introduced as city manager in December 2020. Prior to that, he served as city manager in East Palestine, Ohio, St. Johns, Arizona and for 20 years in Bridgeport, West Virginia.
“Throughout his career, Haws has been instrumental in enhancing West Virginia communities, and his impact on Morgantown will continue to resonate long after his departure,” Mayor Joe Abu-Ghannam said in a statement. “To put it simply, he will be missed.”
Haws’ tenure in Morgantown included advancements in development, such as the Richwood Redevelopment Project and progress with the highly anticipated runway extension project at Morgantown Municipal Airport. During Haws ‘ administration, the Council also approved plans for a new Norwood Fire Station.
However, he also faced several contentious issues including multiple lawsuits filed by the local Fraternal Order of Police and International Association of Firefighters over implementing new personnel policies. Both associations issued a joint vote of “no confidence” in Haws and members of city council in September 2022.
Haws’ residency was called into question in 2022 when it was learned Haws had maintained his home and voter registration in Bridgeport. The city charter requires a city manager to establish permanent residency in Morgantown. Although, Haws kept an apartment in Morgantown, that led to a change in contract language.
“I think we all understand the importance of the choice being made,” Deputy Mayor Jenny Selin explained. “We have a deep appreciation for Kim and can’t thank him enough for his thoughtful leadership over the years.”
Haws will continue to focus on key projects that require his advisement and oversight. He will also work with city council on a transition plan.