July 31, 2024

Dear Friends and Neighbors.
   As I retire today from my role as city manager after 26 years, I find myself reflecting on my 40-year journey in local government with deep gratitude and affection for this community.
    My introduction to public service came from a relative who worked in the federal government. His experiences and insights into the council-manager form of government inspired me to explore this career path. An internship during graduate school in the Village of Croton-on-Hudson, NY, solidified my interest in becoming a city manager. From there, my career took me to Ossining, NY; Sleepy Hollow, NY; and Killingly, CT, before I found my home here in Delaware.
   Earlier this month at the July 4th concert, my wife Mary and I met a couple who had moved to Delaware 12 years ago. When the topic of my retirement came up and the fact that I had been the city manager for 25 years, the woman responded, “That says a lot about Delaware!” I completely agree with her statement. I credit my long tenure here to several factors and I would like to share them with you.
    A Tradition of Strong Governance: This year marks the 70th anniversary of the council-manager form of government in Delaware. The current mayor, city council members, and their predecessors have consistently supported and respected the role of the city manager. They have all served Delaware with integrity and a deep commitment to improving our community. This unwavering support has made Delaware a stable and rewarding place for a city manager to serve.
   A Talented and Dedicated Team: While I serve as the City’s CEO, running a city is undeniably a team effort. Our hard-working and high-caliber staff have made even the most challenging times manageable. Together, we have enjoyed the variety and rewarding nature of our work, seeing the tangible results of our efforts and working to make our community a better place.
   A Culture of Collaboration: Delaware is blessed with a strong culture of caring and collaboration. Over the past 25 years, we’ve accomplished great things together, from completing Sawmill Parkway to establishing the Delaware Entrepreneurial Center and supporting Main Street Delaware. Partnerships with organizations like Delaware City Schools, MORPC, SourcePoint, the YMCA,  the Central Ohio Symphony, the National Guard, and many more have allowed us to address community needs far beyond what the City could achieve alone. 
   A Deep Love for the Community: Before accepting the position in 1998, I knew Delaware was special. Its historic downtown, rich history, and the presence of Ohio Wesleyan University all contribute to a strong sense of place. In conversations with community members, their pride and affection for Delaware shone through. This welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere has made it a wonderful place for Mary and me to raise our children — Robert, John, and Sarah, who were 7, 3, and 7 months old, respectively, when we moved here in 1999. We are grateful to have made a life here and are proud to continue calling Delaware our home in retirement.
   As challenging as the role of city manager can be, the support from our community, staff, and partners made it a fulfilling experience. As the woman at the concert rightly said, “That says a lot about Delaware!”
   As I step away, I have full confidence in our incoming city manager, Paul J. Brake. I know he will continue to lead Delaware with the same dedication and integrity that has made this community so special. I wish Paul all the best in this role.
   Finally, I want to thank my family for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout my career. And to all of you — thank you for making my time as city manager a truly rewarding and memorable journey.
With heartfelt gratitude,
 
Tom Homan