Gordonsville has a new town manager.
On Tuesday, Gordonsville Mayor Ron Brooks, III announced the hire of Anthony C. Schienschang, II as the town’s new manager. Schienschang was selected from among nine applicants to fill the vacancy created by former manager Debbie Kendall’s late March exit. She announced her resignation in January and is now employed by the Town of Orange–Schienschang’s current employer.
Schienschang is currently the Town of Orange Economic Development Manager, a position he has held since last year. He was previously employed by the Orange County Department of Social Services and has experience in developing interagency and business relationships, leading board and committees and addressing complex and sensitive issues. According to a press release, he also has significant project management experience including infrastructure development, law enforcement and emergency management operations.
“The town is thrilled to welcome Anthony to our team,” Brooks said. “His extensive background in local government, the military, law enforcement and management has made a strong impression on both town council and staff. What truly sets Anthony apart is his strategic mindset, clear vision and commitment to build strong relationships with our residents, local businesses and external partners.”
Schienschang said he believes the best way to have an impact at the local level is to work for the agencies that provide services to the community.
“Whether that’s driving a truck for Public Works, teaching in a classroom or serving as a police officer, there are so many ways to make a difference in your community,” he said.
Schienschang said applying for the job in Gordonsville and having the ability to work for the town was an opportunity he didn’t want to pass up.
“The Town of Gordonsville is a great community and I wanted to be a part of the forward momentum that the mayor and this town council have continued for the town,” he said. “I think their hard work and that of the previous town manager, mayor and council really helped set the stage to write the next great chapter for the town. I’m both humbled and excited to have been selected to take the helm.”
In addition to his professional experience, Schienschang is currently serving in the Virginia Defense Force–the reserve component of the Virginia National Guard–as a company commander. He previously served in the United States Army, having had two combat tours in the Middle East. He has a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University–Central Texas and a Master of Arts from the University of Virginia.
Schienschang will begin his role as the town manager Aug. 1. His goal for the first month is to find out what town residents, staff and businesses have to say about where they live and work.
“I will be the first to admit that I don’t know everything and I am excited for the opportunity to learn from the people who trust me, and town staff by extension, to run an efficient and effective local government,” he said. “It is also my goal to see that the town has the right people and processes in place to deliver services to residents in a timely and transparent manner.”
Brooks said the town council is thankful for all the candidates who participated in the selection process.
“We are confident that with Anthony’s leadership, the town is poised for a bright and successful future,” he said.
