(AVOCA, IA) – Officials with the City of Avoca, Monday (Jan. 5th), announced the hiring of Shawnna Silvius as the new City Administrator in Avoca, following a comprehensive recruitment and interview process. Silvius brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in municipal management, community and economic development, strategic planning, and organizational leadership. Most recently, she served two terms as Mayor of Red Oak, where she led a transformation of city operations by modernizing systems, improving internal processes, strengthening fiscal management, and enhancing collaboration across departments. These efforts resulted in improved service delivery, stronger staff leadership, and increased community trust in local government.

Prior to her service as mayor, Silvius served as Executive Director of the Montgomery County Development Corporation, where she re-established a county-wide economic development organization and led multi-community initiatives in housing, broadband, childcare, workforce development, and business growth. She has also worked at the regional level with the Omaha–Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency, contributing to large-scale federal grant projects and small business financing programs.

Shawn Silvius (City of Avoca photo)

Shawnna Silvius holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Management with a focus on Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and maintains multiple professional certifications, including Certified Professional Community & Economic Developer, Certified Grant Administrator, and Certified Elected Municipal Official. As City Administrator, she will oversee daily city operations, collaborate with department heads, and support the City Council in advancing strategic goals, capital improvement planning, and community engagement efforts that enhance quality of life in Avoca.

Silvius will begin her employment in mid January 2026. The City of Avoca proudly welcomes her and looks forward to the positive impact her leadership and service will have on the community for years to come.