Franklin Hires New Assistant City Administrator for Community and Economic Development

The City of Franklin announced the hiring of Walter Denton as its new assistant city administrator for community and economic development last week. Denton will succeed Vernon Gerth, who is set to retire at the end of 2025.

Denton brings with him 33 years of government experience, including 23 years as the city administrator of O’Fallon, Ill., and was previously named as a finalist during the City of Brentwood’s city manager search.

“Walter Denton has expertly navigated O’Fallon through significant growth and organizational development with remarkable skill and dedication," Franklin City Administrator Eric Stuckey says in a news release. "His exemplary track record as a servant leader in public service is truly commendable." 

“We are grateful for Vernon Gerth who has served the community with passion, integrity, and exceptional skill over the past 18 years. Vernon is an outstanding team member that has made a profound impact on Franklin.”

Denton is credited with leading numerous city projects in O’Fallon, and serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where he teaches graduate courses in the master’s of public administration program. He will begin his new role on Oct. 13.

“Franklin is an exceptional community, and I am eager to join this dedicated City team,” Denton says. “Together, we will work to ensure Franklin remains a truly outstanding community that successfully balances preservation and progress.”