Mitchel Kloewer has been in every corner of the world.
As a member of the U.S. Navy for 28 years, Kloewer, originally from Iowa, has been stationed in California, Naples, Italy, and many places in between.
He settled into a new house in Salisbury six months ago and, out of a desire to get involved in the community during his retirement, decided to throw his hat in the ring for Franklin city manager.
On Monday, the city council approved his contract.
“I’m anxious to get started and get to work,” Kloewer said.
Kloewer will start as city manager on Sept. 15.
Franklin was operating under an acting city manager since late February, when former city manager Judy Milner resigned her post. Scott Clarenbach took the temporary role at the beginning of March, having already filled it twice before in 2003 and 2008, when he was fire chief.
On Sept. 3, Clarenbach stepped down in compliance with Franklin’s charter, which stipulates that the city must replace its acting city manager after 180 days. Fire Chief Michael Foss took over while the council finalized its decision.
“We all came together on this, and it was very enjoyable,” Councilor Glen Feener said about choosing Kloewer. “The citizens should know we put all our efforts into this.”
Mayor Desiree McLaughlin applied for city manager in June, according to meeting minutes. McLaughlin recused herself from all matters concerning the appointment of city manager, including the approval of Kloewer’s contract. She is also running for re-election as mayor.
Kloewer retired from the Navy four years ago and currently works as a contractor at the Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts.
He said he has been sitting in on Franklin’s city council meetings since moving to Salisbury a few months ago.
“There are great people doing great things here, and I want to help that out,” Kloewer said.