New interim city manager drives Vandalia future, preserves past

With over a decade’s experience in Vandalia public service, Kurt Althouse, Chief of Police, stepped back into the role of interim city manager on Jan. 6.

Althouse first took on the role from 2020–2021, seeing the city through a time of council transition and societal transition as Vandalia took its first steps back to normalcy post-pandemic. Now the role looks quite different for the chief. Althouse said one of his goals is to balance the process of honoring Vandalia’s historic past with the importance of stewarding and improving the city’s present and future.

“Communication is key,” Althouse said. “We certainly want to acknowledge people's concerns and address issues that may come up. We want people to make sure they have all the information and know what is behind the recommendations that sometimes come from some of our commissions, our boards and staff.”

Managing a city is far from a solitary task, and Althouse’s team attitude toward the position is one he hopes to spur Vandalia residents toward as well. Encouraging the community to get involved in public spaces like city council meetings or planning meetings, Althouse recognizes the only way to build the city residents want is for residents to create and dream with officials together.

The path Althouse envisions for his community isn’t so different from his own. His path started with his first job at the Vandalia McDonald’s and grew with Althouse’s passion for the community around him.

“I'm excited to have this new role,” Althouse said, “from working at a fast food restaurant to the city manager, and [I’m excited] to continue to be able to serve the residents of Vandalia and continue to make Vandalia just a great place to live, work and play.”