FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: AUGUST 4, 2025
TIFTON, Ga. – The City of Tifton has narrowed the search for the City Manager position to a single finalist.
This decision follows a lengthy nationwide search led by Sumter Local Government Consulting (LGC). Sumter LGC and Tifton’s City Council looked for individuals who not only brought a wide variety of experience and knowledge, but also those who exhibited the values of our Friendly City like integrity, priority of community, excellence, efficiency, and the ability to vision for our future.
With over 30 applications received, the selection process included both virtual and in-person interviews with the top four ranking candidates. After thoughtful deliberation, the Mayor and City Council are pleased to announce Jeff Shoobridge as the sole finalist for the City Manager position.
Shoobridge currently serves as the City Administrator in Crookston, MN, a city of approximately 7,270 residents spanning over five square miles, where he directly oversees 13 departments. He is an active member of the International City/County Management Association, past board member of multiple civic organizations, and has a track record for improving efficiencies in local governments. He has expertise in government consulting as the owner/principal of David Samuels Services, LLC. Before his most recent City Administrator role, Shoobridge also led as City Administrator in Madison Lake, MN and Redington Shores, FL. Additionally, Shoobridge brings experiences and knowledge from serving on Groveland, FL’s City Council. Having honorably served in the US Navy from 1986-1990, Shoobridge brings experiences prior to his career in local government that allow him to deeply understand matters that effect City employees and residents alike.
The Mayor and City Council have invited Shoobridge and his family back to Tifton for a Community Tour and Meet and Greet with city staff and local stakeholders. This visit will offer the sole finalist a deeper perspective on the community and help further inform the City’s final decision.
The Mayor and City Council anticipate making their final appointment at the August 18th City Council Meeting.
The City of Tifton hired Sumter LGC to drive the City Manager recruitment process. Sumter LGC is a local government consulting firm that provides a wide array of city government consulting services to clients to meet their unique needs. Sumter LGC develops and implements solutions that improve the quality of life for residents, increase economic development opportunities, and enhance the capacity of clients to meet the challenges of today’s ever-changing world. To learn more about Sumter LGC, please visit: https://sumterlocalgovconsulting.com/
The City of Tifton is continuously growing a safe and thriving community by providing progressive city services delivered with integrity and friendliness. Tifton’s mission is to exceed the expectations of our community, our employees, and our friends. To learn more about the City of Tifton, please visit: https://www.tifton.net/
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