Get to Know Wellington’s Village Manager
Hi, I’m Jim Barnes, Wellington’s new Village Manager. If you’ve lived in Wellington within the last two decades, chances are we’ve crossed paths either at Village Hall, at one of our many community events, or on the soccer fields at Village Park.
I was born and raised in the Philippines and have lived in Palm Beach County since 1977. My wife Kim (a Palm Beach County, Florida native) and I moved to Wellington in 2005 and our children Kyle and Devyn attended Wellington Elementary School, Wellington Landings Middle School, and Wellington Community High School.
I am a planner by background and experience, but a public servant at heart. Having worked several years in the public and private sectors in planning and land development, I started working for Wellington in 2003, as the Village’s Assistant Director of Community Services, later taking on the roles of Deputy Director of Environmental and Engineering Services, Parks and Recreation Director, Deputy Director of Operations, Director of Operations, and Assistant/Deputy Village Manager.
You can learn more about my career and experience on Wellington’s website, but what I want you to know as I begin my role as Village Manager, is that there are two major guiding principles behind my decision-making process – family and community. They are the reason my wife Kim and I decided to move here and raise our children, and why we’ve decided to stay here, long after our children start their adult lives.
My role, together with all Wellington staff, is to implement our Council’s vision, continue delivering the outstanding level of service to our residents, and implement initiatives that enhance our quality of life: excellent schools, and recreation opportunities we’ve all come to love and expect in Wellington.
It’s time to put 2020 in the rearview mirror and focus on a fresh start. It’s time to take a common-sense approach to get COVID-19 under control – and prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of our residents and businesses. As we continue to work alongside PBSO and Fire Rescue – the safety and security of our residents and visitors remain one of our top priorities.
Together, as a community, we overcame unprecedented challenges in 2020. This year, more than ever, we must resolve to work together to embrace our differences, recommit to high ideals, and to celebrate the good in life.
I invite you to get involved in our community this year. Whether through volunteering for the Village or for one of our many local organizations, or serving on one of our boards and committees – take an active role in our Village.