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After 15 years overseeing Glen Carbon’s day-to-day operations, Village Administrator Jamie Bowden plans to retire in early 2027.
The village announced July 15 that Bowden, 68, will step down no later than Feb. 12, 2027. He will celebrate 15 years with Glen Carbon in October.
Bowden said his age, the timing and the village’s current stability all factored into his decision.
“It was a matter of timing and age,” Bowden said. “I’ve been considering this for a couple of years because of where I’m at. The community is going well, and it’s a stable community. I have a stable board and a stable mayor, which makes the job a lot more (attractive). These positions can be political.”
The Village Board and mayor’s office have changed since Bowden was hired.
“In a lot of communities, when there’s changes, they change the administrator,” he said. “They’ve treated me well. The community is a special place, and it’s become home for me and (wife) Carrie. I just thought it was the right time.”
Bowden said announcing his retirement well in advance will give village officials time to manage the transition and select his successor. The Village Board is expected to consider hiring an executive search firm.
“That firm will assist them in looking at the requirements for the job in a position profile,” he said.
Bowden expects the village to name a new administrator closer to the beginning of the year. He said there likely will be some overlap between his tenure and that of the incoming administrator.
Bowden said he plans to remain in the area and will be available to assist when needed.
Looking ahead
Bowden said Glen Carbon is well positioned for the transition.
“There’s still a lot going on and a lot to be done,” he said. “We have a very good, professional staff, and I think the (village administrator) position will be well sought after.”
Among the issues facing village leaders are a new water treatment plant and a STAR bond district.
“I believe that the board has the community’s heart and community’s best interests at hand,” Bowden said of the STAR bond district. “They know that’s something they need to work through. Those are things that need to continue to evolve.”
A STAR bond district could include entertainment venues, specialty retail, hospitality businesses and tourist attractions.
Looking back
A native of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, Bowden has nearly 40 years of experience in public administration and has worked in several Illinois communities.
During his tenure in Glen Carbon, he has been involved in development projects and quality-of-life initiatives. He credited the village’s management staff for their work and said he has valued his relationships with residents, board members and employees.
“That’s been outstanding,” he said.
After retiring, Bowden said he may pursue part-time consulting work or serve as a senior adviser with the Illinois City/County Management Association, helping current managers. First, he plans to spend time with family and visit relatives.
Bowden thanked the mayor, village trustees, village staff and residents for their support. He also thanked his wife, Carrie, who has been with him throughout his career. The couple has been married for 36 years.
Bowden and his wife have two daughters. Hannah lives in the Milwaukee area with her husband, Matt, and their daughter, Blair, who was born in March. Haley lives in Denver.
