OGDEN — A major municipal position is being vacated as Ogden City staff members begin to tackle the new year.

In a press release sent Friday afternoon, it was announced that city officials have accepted the resignation of Community & Economic Development Director Brandon Cooper.

“Mr. Cooper, Mayor (Ben) Nadolski, and (Chief Administrative Officer) Mara Brown, acknowledge that this is the time for a new leader to take the position and move Ogden City towards shared values and a vision for Ogden’s future,” the release said.

Cooper has served in the position since May 2022.

According to the release, Cooper addressed employees on his decision through a letter.

“It has been an immense privilege to contribute to the Ogden City team over the past 16+ years,” he wrote to employees. “I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to collaborate with each of you, and I am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved together. From the Junction to the River Project to Trackline to WonderBlock, and now the beginnings of Union Station, we have changed Ogden in ways that will be positively felt for generations.”

Nadolski said the city is grateful for Cooper’s efforts but that it is time for the city to pursue new opportunities.

“We appreciate all that Mr. Cooper has done for the city,” Nadolski said. “This is an opportunity for a fresh start for our Community and Economic Development Department and for Ogden City. We will be seeking a new Director in the coming months and will search to find the highest qualified individual who meets the requirements of this position and shares the values of this administration.”

Cooper’s final day will be Jan. 26. Jared Johnson, deputy director of the Community & Economic Development Department, will fill the director role on an interim basis.

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