City Manager Ron Olson has appointed Susan K. Thorpe of Peoria, Arizona, as the Assistant City Manager for Safety, Health and Neighborhoods.   She takes over for Troy Riggs who left Corpus Christi to become the Director of Public Safety in Indianapolis, Indiana in late 2012.

Ms. Thorpe has more than 25 years of municipal management experience, having served as a City Manager and Assistant City Manager for cities in Texas and California.  Ms. Thorpe spent the last seven years as Peoria’s Deputy City Manager.  Most recently, she oversaw Peoria’s Information Technology Department, City’s Clerk’s Office, Management and Budget Department, Human Resources, Public Works-Utilities Department and Finance Department.  City Manager Ron Olson said, “We are excited to have Susan joining our team.  Her experience and her abilities are going to be a tremendous addition to the city and we are really looking forward to her arriving here and getting to work.”

Ms. Thorpe holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and a Masters of Public Administration Degree from the University of North Texas and holds Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association.

Libraries Director Herb Canales served as Interim Assistant City Manager while national recruitment efforts took place.  “Not just anyone can step into an interim Assistant City Manager position and perform so successfully,” said City Manager Ron Olson, citing Mr. Canales’ dedication and service to the City of Corpus Christi.  “Mr. Canales used his more than 32 years’ experience with the City’s library system and worked as a team leader demonstrating strong leadership and ability,” added Olson.

Ms. Thorpe was born in Fort Benning, Georgia, the daughter of an U.S. Army officer.  She is married to Jay McLaughlin and they have a daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren.  Thorpe said, “I am looking forward to calling Corpus Christi home.  It will be a great fit for my family and I truly believe my skills can make a difference in the community.”  Thorpe’s first day on the job will be Monday, March 18, 2013.