City Hires Assistant City Admin. for Community and Economic Development
Walter Denton
Current ACA Vernon Gerth to Retire at End of Year
FRANKLIN, TN – The City of Franklin is pleased to announce the appointment of Walter Denton as the new Assistant City Administrator for Community and Economic Development. Walter brings an impressive 33 years of local government experience, including 23 years as the City Administrator of O’Fallon, IL. He will be stepping into the role previously held by Vernon Gerth, who is retiring after 18 years of dedicated service at the end of 2025.
City Administrator Eric Stuckey expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition after a countrywide search, stating, “Walter Denton has expertly navigated O’Fallon through significant growth and organizational development with remarkable skill and dedication. His exemplary track record as a servant leader in public service is truly commendable.” Stuckey went on to compliment current Assistant City Administrator Vernon Gerth, “We are grateful for Vernon Gerth who has served the community with passion, integrity, and exceptional skill over the past 18 years. Vernon is an outstanding team member that has made a profound impact on Franklin!”
Vernon Gerth
Incoming Assistant City Administrator (ACA) Walter Denton said, “Franklin is an exceptional community, and I am eager to join this dedicated City team. Together, we will work to ensure Franklin remains a truly outstanding community that successfully balances preservation and progress.”
During his tenure in O’Fallon, Walter Denton successfully spearheaded numerous initiatives, including the creation of a 2040 Master Plan, Development Design Standards, a Downtown Plan, and an updated zoning code and subdivision ordinance. He also established several Tax Increment Financing Districts and developed sales tax rebates for major retail developments. Walter’s leadership was instrumental in the completion of several significant facility projects, such as a $29 million, 203-acre family sports park, a conference center, and public safety facilities
In addition to his extensive experience in local government, Walter serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where he teaches graduate courses in the Master’s in Public Administration program. His previous roles include Assistant City
Administrator at the City of Cape Girardeau and State Coordinator for the Koch Crime Commission in Wichita, Kansas.
Walter Denton will officially begin his service with the City of Franklin on October 13. The City of Franklin eagerly anticipates the positive impact he will bring to the community and looks forward to a bright future under his leadership.
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