New Newton Assistant City Manager named |

The City of Newton announced Tuesday the selection of Sean Hovis as the Assistant City Manager.

Hovis has more than 20 years of experience in local government with the City of Hickory.

“Mr. Clark is well respected throughout local government, and I am excited to work with him, staff and members of the community to help keep the City of Newton moving forward,” Hovis said.

Since 1999, Hovis had served as the City of Hickory Risk Manager developing his expertise in budgeting, safety, policy development, personnel management, claims adjusting, training and more. Prior to that position, Hovis served as a police officer and criminal investigator for the City of Hickory.

“With 20 years of experience, Mr. Hovis stood out from the pool of applicants for his skill and his broad knowledge of municipal operations,” Newton City Manager Todd Clark said. “The City of Newton is happy to welcome him on board.”

Hovis was selected from a group of 81 applicants. His starting salary is $68,556.80.

Hovis’ responsibilities as Assistant City Manager include administering and coordinating special projects and research, assisting in developing and implementing policies, serving in the absence of the City Manager and directing, coordinating and supervising the planning department’s services, staff and functions.

Hovis earned his master of public administration from Appalachian State University in 2004 and his bachelor of science in criminal justice from Lees McRae College in 2000. He has a current North Carolina Law Enforcement Certificate and is a past board member of the N.C. Association of Local Government Employee Safety Officers.