Washington Twp. taps Beavercreek official as new top administrator
Washington Twp. officials said Monday afternoon that Mike Thonnerieux was selected as the township’s new administrator — the top day-to-day government official.
Thonnerieux will succeed Jesse Lightle, who resigned in January after more than 15 years as township administrator to take a position at Sinclair Community College. Development Director Ryan Lee has filled in as interim administrator in recent weeks.
Washington Twp.’s Board of Trustees was scheduled to approve Thonnerieux’s employment agreement at Monday night’s regularly scheduled trustees meeting.
Thonnerieux serves as the city of Beavercreek’s public administrative services director. In that role, he is responsible for multiple divisions, including engineering, street maintenance, traffic, cemetery, buildings and grounds, fleet, parks, recreation and culture, the Beavercreek golf club and the senior citizens center.
His previous experience includes director/superintendent of Beavercreek’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, and recreation program supervisor for the same entity, according to his letter of interest.
Trustee President Dale Berry said that in addition to “a highly skilled and qualified candidate,” he and his fellow trustees were looking for someone with “a strong understanding of the community and of local government management and its multifaceted dynamics.”
“Mike brings a breadth of experience on similar issues and opportunities that confront Washington Twp.,” Berry said in a statement. “His knowledge of property tax-funded government agencies is advantageous, he has a proven track record in local government, and values
active listening and respectful dialogue.”
Thonnerieux serves as the co-chair of the Chuck Dickerson Memorial Scholarship fund, is a board member of Universal 1 Credit Union, and is a member of the International City Managers Association, National Parks and Recreation Association and the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association.
“As a former Washington Twp. resident, a graduate of Centerville High School and former employee of the Washington Township RecPlex, we believe that his familiarity with our community will help make for a smooth transition,” Berry said. “Mike’s experience in economic development, community programs, and responsible fiscal management will greatly benefit the Washington Twp. community and provide strong and steady leadership for township staff.”
Thonnerieux said he’s excited to be returning to the township and becoming an active member of the community.
“I’m looking forward to serving Washington Twp. and continuing to improve the quality of life for residents by developing partnerships, collaborations, and promoting the Township at the local, regional and state levels,” Thonnerieux said.