Five months after Kris Simpson’s departure from the role, Crestwood has the name of its new city administrator: David Weidler. Weidler’s hiring was approved on July 8, and he will formally take up the mantle on Aug. 17.
“David brings the experience, judgment and steady leadership Crestwood needs as we move forward,” Mayor Scott Shipley stated in a press release. “His background in municipal operations, budgeting, procurement, internal controls and organizational leadership makes him a strong fit for our city. He understands the importance of supporting staff, working effectively with elected officials and keeping city services focused on residents.”
Weidler currently works for the City of Kirkwood, where he has spent over 15 years attaining experience in local government. He has served as the city’s Assistant Chief Administrative Officer since 2021, and most recently, he served as Interim Chief Administrative Officer.
Weidler holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a Master of Public Policy Administration from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. He also has several professional certifications, including NIGP Certified Procurement Professional, Certified Public Procurement Officer and Certified Professional Public Buyer.
“Crestwood’s commitment to preserving its historic character while embracing thoughtful, strategic growth makes this opportunity especially compelling,” Weidler stated in a press release. “I am excited to contribute to the continued success of the city.”
The position of Crestwood’s city administrator was vacated by Kris Simpson on January 30, when he took a city administrator job in Creve Coeur. Simpson had served in that position for the city of Crestwood for 10 years. Since that time, Chief of Police Jonathan Williams has served as acting city administrator, fulfilling both of his roles within the city.
The hiring firm Colin Baenziger & Associates (CB&A) searched for and found 40 qualified candidates for the city administrator position. CB&A performed candidate outreach, initial screening, background reviews, reference checks and coordination of the interview process.
After the initial review of candidates, there was a multi-step evaluation which included input from city leadership and the Board of Aldermen. Following that round, finalists participated in interviews with the aldermen and department heads, and they received tours of city facilities, project sites and the four wards which make up the city of Crestwood.
“We’re excited about the future of Crestwood, and we’re confident David is the right leader to help us continue delivering excellent services to our residents,” Shipley said.
