Hutchinson city manager Villegas wins state leadership award

HUTCHINSON — City Manager Enrico Villegas has received the Early Career Excellence Award from the Kansas Association of City/County Management, a peer-recognized honor highlighting his leadership impact in local government.

The award was presented at KACM's annual conference last week, recognizing Villegas for achievements made during his first year with Hutchinson.

KACM cited his efforts to strengthen relationships between city staff and the governing body while improving communication and collaboration across departments. The association also recognized his work developing a long-term financial plan to address budget challenges and increase transparency.

Villegas was acknowledged for reinvigorating Hutchinson's partnership with Reno County and local organizations to advance the Reno County Economic Development Strategic Plan, which KACM said is producing positive results for the city and region.

The association highlighted operational improvements in the Public Works Department, including expanded residential street plowing during snow events within existing budgets.

KACM noted these organizational changes contributed to improved staffing levels, with the city moving from widespread vacancies to being nearly fully staffed across major departments.

The Early Career Excellence Award recognizes professionals who have made meaningful impacts in their communities and organizations early in their careers.