(Avoca, Iowa) The City of Avoca is pleased to announce the hiring of Shawnna Silvius as the city’s new City Administrator, following a comprehensive recruitment and interview process. Thank you to the community leaders, residents, and the AHSTW School District for their collaboration and support throughout this process.
Silvius brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in municipal management, community and economic development, strategic planning, and organizational leadership. Most recently, she served two terms as Mayor of Red Oak, where she led a transformation of city operations by modernizing systems, improving internal processes, strengthening fiscal management, and enhancing collaboration across departments. These efforts resulted in improved service delivery, stronger staff leadership, and increased community trust in local government.
“Shawnna’s experience, leadership, and proven ability to move projects from vision to reality stood out to the Council,” said Mayor Tom Bruck. “Her track record of collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and community-focused development makes her an excellent fit for Avoca as we continue planning for the future.”
Before she served as mayor, Silvius served as Executive Director of the Montgomery County Development Corporation, where she re-established a county-wide economic development organization and led multi-community initiatives in housing, broadband, childcare, workforce development, and business growth. She has also worked at the regional level with the Omaha–Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency, contributing to large-scale federal grant projects and small business financing programs.
Silvius holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Management with a focus on Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and maintains multiple professional certifications, including Certified Professional Community & Economic Developer, Certified Grant Administrator, and Certified Elected Municipal Official.
As City Administrator, she will oversee daily city operations, collaborate with department heads, and support the City Council in advancing strategic goals, capital improvement planning, and community engagement efforts that enhance quality of life in Avoca.
“I’m excited to focus on helping the Mayor, city council, and all city leadership — including key community stakeholders — further shape a thriving, connected, and forward‑thinking community through coordinated planning, transparent communication, and innovative solutions that enhance the quality of life for all residents, visitors, and businesses,” said Silvius.
Additionally, Silvius expressed how her values in integrity, transparency, curiosity, pursuit of excellence, and collaboration guide everything she does. She believes in listening first, communicating openly, and making decisions that reflect both a long-term vision and the community’s priorities. Personally, she values kindness, accountability, pursuing passions, and believes that genuine, strong relationships form the foundation of both life and thriving communities.
Silvius will begin her employment in mid January 2026. The City of Avoca proudly welcomes her and looks forward to the positive impact her leadership and service will have on the community for years to come.
For any questions, please get in touch with City Hall at 712-343-2424, or to learn more about Shawnna, visit cityofavoca.com/page/avoca-city-administrator.
