Outgoing Navajo County Manager James Jayne offered his recommendation of Public Works Director Glenn Kephart as interim county manager to the Board of Supervisors last week.
Kephart has served the county for just over a year. Prior to that, he headed public works departments in Coral Gables, Fla., and the City of Tempe, and worked as district traffic engineer and pavement manager engineer for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
District IV Supervisor Steve Williams said Kephart has been very impressive to him, noting that he is “a problem-solver and has a tremendous work ethic.”
District III Supervisor Jason Whiting explained that the community that he serves and the staff at Navajo County are happy with the work that Kephart does and he has his vote of confidence.
The supervisors approved the appointment of Kephart as interim county manager unanimously.
“I am humbled and honored by this appointment and understand the importance of this commitment,” said Kephart. He then thanked Jayne for his work and said, “We will continue with his good efforts to serve this community.”
Kephart will take over the position on Friday, Aug. 4. Following the approval of Kephart, the supervisors, as well as members of the public and county staff members took an opportunity to say goodbye to Jayne.
Jayne has worked in Navajo County for 14 years and is moving on to take a position in Coconino County.
Supervisor Williams explained that he had learned much from Jayne as he served as county manager.
Board Chairman Jesse Thompson noted, “A lot of partnerships have been made, a lot of communication in this county and Jimmy was always there.”
Other speakers included former supervisors Percy Deal, Robert Black and Jonathan Nez, who now serves as vice president of the Navajo Nation. All showered Jayne with accolades for his partnership with the Navajo Nation.
Deal said, “I love and respect, and have a great appreciation for all you have done from the south to the north.”
Assistant County Manager Paul Watson read a letter from the Little Colorado Community Development Corporation based in Winslow. “We would like to sincerely show our appreciation for your work with the Diné here in Winslow,” the letter noted.
Jayne closed by saying, “Navajo County sets an example of how community service and county government can work. It’s better to leave some place better than you found it, and I hope I have.”
He will begin his new position in Coconino County on Aug. 11.
