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City of Colorado Springs / City Council / News

Council Names Steve Cox Interim City Manager


Photo of Steven Cox
Steven W. Cox is a Colorado Springs native who began his public service career in 1981.  Cox has spent 29 years, the core of his career, with the City of Colorado Springs Fire Department. In 2008 Cox was appointed Acting Assistant City Manager; overseeing planning, streets, public works, traffic operations, engineering, public communications and legislative affairs. He successfully fulfilled his duties as Assistant City Manager and was sworn-in as Colorado Springs Fire Chief October 11, 2008.  He has served in many key positions, in addition to Fire Chief and Assistant City Manager, including firefighter, driver engineer, lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, and deputy chief. His experience includes both emergency operations and support services.           

 "Chief Cox is a solid choice for us during these uncertain economic times with budget constraints, community dialogs regarding governance models and our work to redefine how we best deliver city services to our citizens. He has the respect of the senior staff, the city workforce and community, and understands the challenges we are facing.  Steve has been serving on Executive Staff under City Manager Penny Culbreth-Graft and is up to speed with our strategies and goals.  He is strong leader and has City Council's unanimous support as our Interim City Manager," said Mayor Lionel Rivera.

Cox holds an associate degree from Pikes Peak Community College and a bachelor's degree from Regis University. He will complete his Master Degree in Organizational Leadership in 2010.  Significant commendations include:  Firefighter of the Year-1996; Pikes Peak Lodging Association; Medal of Valor, Colorado Springs Fire Department-1995; Governor Roy Romer's Award for Courage-Off Duty Rescue of Elderly Victims and Medal of Distinguished Service in 2010.

Cox will take over as Acting City Manager on April 16, when Penny Culbreth-Graft departs. Appointment of an Acting Fire Chief is expected prior to April 16, 2010.