City of Jonesboro chief of staff resigns

Bill Reznicek has resigned his position as the city of Jonesboro’s chief of staff effective late Monday (April 22). Reznicek had been on leave from his duties under the federal Family Medical Leave Act since Jan. 28, according to the city.

Mayor Harold Perrin said hiring a replacement is a top priority due to Jonesboro’s growth and vibrant economy during the past decade.

“It’s critical that we seize this opportunity to take the strides that are crucial to our overall vision,” Perrin said. “Jonesboro’s growth and the acclaim that’s come with it in recent years — not just in Arkansas, but in nationwide studies — has given us a great foundation. Now, we have a unique opportunity to build on it with several projects that we’ve targeted but haven’t seen to fruition. The person who fills this job will play a key role in fulfilling our mission.”

Roy Ockert has worked as chief of staff in an interim capacity for nearly three months and has served in several key roles intermittently for the city for more than three years. Ockert will continue as interim chief of staff while a search for a permanent executive begins. Ockert is the former retired editor of The Jonesboro Sun.

“I have redesigned my administrative team at various times to make the most of the skills of the individuals on our team,” Perrin said. “We are lean in staff in top administration because Jonesboro residents want and deserve the most for their tax dollars. That has been my mandate since taking office.”

Perrin has made two key hires in recent weeks, adding Deanna Hornback as finance director and Regina Burkett as director of grants and community development.

“I’m excited by the qualifications and ideas that these two ladies bring to our administration,” Perrin said. “And, I wish Bill Reznicek the best in his future endeavors.”

Reznicek had been with the city, first as chief financial officer and later as chief of staff, since September 2017.