Eagle Mountain has a new member on its administrative team.

The city has announced in a press release the appointment of Ben Reeves as its new city manager.

Previously, Reeves served as city manager for over a decade in Santaquin, a seat he departed in May 2022. There, he spearheaded the creation of a wastewater reclamation facility, according to the release. From there, he went to Indianola, Iowa, for a similar role.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ben Reeves to Eagle Mountain,” Mayor Tom Westmoreland said in the release, issued Thursday. “His proven track record in both Utah and Iowa, combined with his educational background, makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead our city through this exciting period of growth.”

According to the release, Eagle Mountain officials believe his experience in economic development, infrastructure management and community consensus building will be instrumental as the city continues to change in the coming years.

Reeves fills the seat left vacant by Paul Jerome, who stepped down in February after more than 16 years with the city.

Steve Mumford, assistant city manager, had been filling the role in the interim while the city sought out a permanent replacement.

Eagle Mountain officials say they conducted a thorough search to ensure the hiring of someone who understands the community and its needs.

“The City wanted to bring someone into the city manager’s post that understood Utah, and especially understood the issues that most affect Eagle Mountain and its residents,” Communications Manager Tyler Maffitt told the Daily Herald in an email Friday.

Eagle Mountain, like most of Utah County, is experiencing growing pains. Managing growth, infrastructure advancements and the creation of a downtown space that’s viable for residents, visitors and businesses are among some of the items Reeves will be focusing on.

“Eagle Mountain City has completed significant strategic planning in recent years that prioritizes safety, infrastructure, reliable services and wildlife conservation. It is a major focus of the City to also develop a downtown and place a priority on infrastructure improvements. Mr. Reeves brings a host of experience in his previous roles that we strongly believe will benefit Eagle Mountain well into the future,” Maffitt said.

Reeves seemingly is excited for the challenges ahead.

“I am honored to serve as City Manager for Eagle Mountain,” he said as part of the release. “I am eager to work alongside our elected officials, city staff, and residents to build a prosperous and sustainable future. Together, we will continue to make Eagle Mountain a great place to live, work and play.”

Prior to his professional experience, Reeves obtained a master’s degree in organizational behavior and strategic leadership from Roberts Wesleyan College and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Southern Utah University, according to the release. He also earned an associate degree in business administration from Dixie State College — now Utah Tech University.

Eagle Mountain officials and leaders believe his combination of financial acumen, leadership training and conflict resolution skills positions him to address Eagle Mountain’s needs.

Reeves will begin his new role in late December.