Steigerwald officially takes over as Kissimmee’s city manager

By Brian McBride
Associate Editor

At times being brought to tears by the celebration of his service with the city of Kissimmee, former City Manager Mark Durbin Tuesday said goodbye to a packed room of city residents, municipal leaders and political dignitaries during a special meeting at the Kissimmee Civic Center to recognize his retirement.

Durbin, working 23 years for the city, the longest tenured city manager Kissimmee had ever seen, was described as many things besides an effective city manager, according to a proclamation read by new City Manager Mike Steigerwald. He was the Wayne Gretzky on rollerblades. He made a mean chocolate chip cookie. And he was always quick with a joke.

In a showing of appreciation and respect, city commissioners voted Tuesday to name the community park in Kissimmee's Lakeside subdivision in Durbin’s honor.

“Mark, we are extremely thankful as a community for what you have done for us,” Mayor Jim Swan said.

Durbin, at times, became emotional during the shower of praise, but especially when he talked openly about his family, and his wife, Connie Click.

Videos were shown touting his capital project accomplishments over the years as city manager along with upbeat testimonials from current and former city employees and city commissioners about his work ethic and his management style. But it was Durbin who stressed that the key to his success was his department heads and city employees.

“The employees of the city of Kissimmee are number one,” he said. “They are the heart and soul for the city of Kissimmee.”

During the meeting, a mix of community figureheads and business leaders took the podium to praise his leadership, some presenting him with plaques.

Anna Pinellas, chairwoman of Osceola Visionaries, described Durbin as a “good man, a scholar and a Christian.”

“It's so hard to find just the right words to someone who is strong willed, but humble,” she said. “I'm just proud to know you and your love and your friendship.”

Beverly Hoagland, CEO of the Osceola County Council on Aging, said that Durbin worked tirelessly to bring a diverse community together and he was a true servant to the community.

“I don't want to cry, but we will miss you,” she said.

And state Rep. Mike Horner, who is president of the Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber of Commerce, told Durbin it was an “honor and a privilege to work with you.”

“Even when we disagreed I always knew you had the city's best interest at heart,” he said.

What future endeavors might be waiting for Durbin was unknown, but one plan was certain. He and his wife planned to take a seven-week vacation out West, Durbin said.

Before the meeting ended, Durbin passed down the city manager nameplate to Steigerwald, who was promoted from deputy city manager.

“The city is going to be in great hands with Mike and staff,” Durbin said.