Succession Without a Script: Handing Over the City You Love

Episode 230 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Zencity and Tyler Technologies

What happens when you’ve spent your entire career building and protecting the city you grew up in, only to face the challenge of handing it over to the next generation?

That’s the story of William “Buzzy” Newman, former city manager and now assistant city manager of Henderson, Kentucky. His leadership journey is anything but conventional. From being the son of a six-term mayor, to leading Henderson through economic transformation, social unrest, and the chaos of COVID, Buzzy embodies what it means to lead with courage, honesty, and a love for community.

But perhaps his most powerful contribution wasn’t in the big projects or crises. It was in how he mentored Dylan Ward, a young city engineer who boldly told him, “I want your job.” Instead of brushing him off, Buzzy took Dylan under his wing, gave him real responsibility, and prepared him to step into the city manager’s seat. Today, Dylan leads Henderson forward while Buzzy has stepped back into the assistant role—still serving, still guiding, still ensuring his city thrives.

This episode is more than a story about Henderson. It’s a candid look at the realities every municipal leader faces:

• How do you balance the demands of city hall with the needs of your family?
• What does honesty look like when the truth might cost you an election?
• How do you lead a community through crisis when there’s no playbook?
• And most importantly, how do you prepare the next generation to carry the baton?

Buzzy shares the lessons, the scars, and the wisdom that only decades of municipal service can teach. His story challenges us to think differently about succession, mentorship, and what it means to truly love the city you serve.

Listen to Episode 230: Succession Without a Script

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Sponsor Spotlight

This episode is made possible by our sponsors:

Tyler Technologies
Helping municipalities modernize, streamline, and better serve their residents with innovative digital solutions. Learn how Tyler supports local governments at www.tylertech.com

Zencity
Giving leaders a clear view of what their community really thinks and needs—not just the “same ten people.” With real-time insights, you can lead with confidence. Discover how Zencity helps leaders listen at www.zencity.io.

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The HaltingWinter Podcast celebrates and elevates the people who power local government. Through in-depth conversations with leaders from cities, counties, and communities of all sizes, host Seth Winterhalter explores the journeys, challenges, and innovations happening in municipal leadership across America.