City of Brookings Names Johnny Mays as New Deputy City Manager
- Steve Jurrens
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Brookings, SD - The City of Brookings has concluded its national search for a new deputy city manager by hiring Johnny Mays, who is scheduled to begin his new role on October 14.
Mr. Mays comes to Brookings from Columbia, Missouri, where he most recently served as the director of facilities management for Boone County since April 2023. Before holding that position, he gained 12 years of experience in various supervisory and managerial roles while working for the City of Lenexa, Kansas.
Mr. Mays was selected from a pool of approximately 65 applicants to fill the position left vacant by the resignation of Jacob Meshke, who departed in May to become the city manager in Indianola, Iowa.
City Manager Paul Briseno expressed confidence in the hire, noting that Mr. Mays "has more than 20 years of progressive experience in local government." Briseno added that Mr. Mays has dedicated his career to public service in several areas, including parks and recreation, public works, and facilities management. Briseno also highlighted the new deputy city manager's commitment to continuous improvement, evidenced by his pursuit of advanced education.
In his new role, Mr. Mays will work directly with the City Manager to oversee departments, advance strategic priorities, and lead citywide projects. He will also be responsible for guiding intergovernmental relations and serving as the acting city manager when necessary.
Mr. Mays stated he is "extremely excited and thankful for this opportunity to join a dedicated team of public servants." He praised Brookings as an "amazing and thriving community" and expressed his readiness to work alongside the city staff, governing body, and community stakeholders.
Mr. Mays holds a doctorate in public administration and public policy from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. He also earned a master's degree from Fort Hays State University and a bachelor's degree from Ashford University. Additionally, he completed the Certified Public Management Program at Arizona State University and the Emerging Leaders Academy at the University of Kansas.
City Manager Briseno noted that Mr. Mays' initial months will be focused on building relationships and gaining deeper familiarity with both the organization and the community.
