Editor's Note: This story has been corrected to reflect the tenures of previous directors.
For the third time in less than five years, the City of Springfield’s Building Development Services Department (BDS) is without a director.
Brock Rowe, who was named BDS director in November 2022, is leaving Springfield to take a job as the development director with Oklahoma City, according to a news release. Rowe joined BDS as an assistant director in May 2021.
“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,” Rowe said in a news release. “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.”
Dwayne Schmel resigned from the position in March 2022, a little more than a year after being named director. Schmel’s predecessor, Harlan Hill, exited the role in February 2020 after about two years on the job. The position was previously held by Chris Straw, who served as director from 2010 to 2018.
The search for a new director will begin later this month. The city has not named an interim director, though Deputy City Manager Maurice Jones will serve as the “point of contact” for BDS until the position is filled, according to city spokesperson Cora Scott.
