Springfield BDS director takes job in Oklahoma City

Last edited 12:31 p.m., June 21, 2024 [Editor's note: More information has been added.]

Springfield Building Development Services Director Brock Rowe is leaving for a job in Oklahoma, becoming the latest leader in the department to exit in recent years.

Rowe has accepted a job as development director in Oklahoma City, according to a news release. His last day at the city of Springfield is July 12.

“As I announce my resignation as the director of Building Development Services for the city of Springfield, I want to express my deep appreciation for the time I have spent in this role. The dedication and hard work of our staff have been truly inspiring, and their efforts have significantly contributed to the growth and development of our community," Rowe said in the release. “The support and engagement of the citizens of Springfield have also greatly enriched my experience here. I am grateful for the opportunity to have served such a vibrant and collaborative community, and I will always cherish the memories and accomplishments we have achieved together.”

Rowe was named permanent director of BDS in November 2022 after holding the role on an interim basis since March that year, according to past reporting. Formerly assistant director of BDS, Rowe succeeded Dwayne Shmel after he left in 2022. Shmel in 2020 took over for Harlan Hill, who became BDS director in 2018 for the retiring Chris Straw.

An interim director to take over for Rowe has not been named, said city spokesperson Cora Scott, and a search process is expected to begin soon. Deputy City Manager Maurice Jones will be the point of contact when Rowe leaves, Scott added.

In April, Rowe outlined an eight-point plan to address dangerous properties in the city, according to past reporting.

“Brock has done a wonderful job helping the city become more efficient and made a difference in his work to help address chronic nuisance properties,” City Manager Jason Gage said in the release. “Brock has a positive attitude and is a problem solver. We wish him the best.”

The BDS department at the city implements and monitors city, state and federal codes, and it works with developers and property owners on essential information, according to the city's website. The department has an annual budget of roughly $5 million, or about 5% of the general fund budget, and more than 35 employees.

The city of Springfield also announced in the release that Fawn Rowe, executive secretary in the city clerk's office, would be leaving the municipality. Brock and Fawn Rowe are married.