City of West Bend Appoints Jesse Thyes as New City Administrator

West Bend, Wis. (June 12, 2025):  Following an extensive search and public engagement process, the City of West Bend is pleased to announce Jesse Thyes as its next City Administrator. Thyes brings nearly two decades of public sector leadership experience, most recently serving as the Village Administrator for the Village of Grafton, Wisconsin.

With a career marked by strong fiscal management, regional collaboration, and inclusive leadership, Thyes is well-positioned to lead West Bend into its next chapter of growth and development.

“The Common Council unanimously agreed that Jesse’s comprehensive understanding of municipal operations, coupled with his emphasis on service, communication, and organizational development, made him the ideal choice,” said Council President John Butschlick. “We’re excited to welcome him to West Bend and look forward to the energy, experience, and perspective he will bring to our City.”

Since 2016, Thyes has served as the Village Administrator for Grafton, a community of more than 12,000 residents. His prior leadership roles include serving as Assistant City Administrator and Acting City Administrator for the City of Mequon, Village Administrator for the Village of Butler, and Assistant Village Manager/Community Services Director for the Village of Brown Deer.

During his tenure in Grafton, Thyes led a $2.05 million multi-jurisdictional Fire/EMS Services referendum, supported two additional townships through their own referendum processes, and served as lead author and facilitator of a regional Fire/EMS consolidation agreement. He also oversaw a complete overhaul of Grafton’s budget process, earning the Village a GFOA Distinguished Budget Award, and grew the Village’s Fund Balance to more than 41% of operational expenses.

Beyond his technical acumen, Thyes is known for his collaborative and team-oriented approach.

“Jesse has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to clear communication and exceptional customer service, both within the organization and throughout the community,” said Mayor Joel Ongert. “Beyond his impressive professional credentials, he brings a leadership style rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and transparency—qualities that will strengthen our team and benefit the entire City.”

Thyes holds an MBA in Public Administration from Concordia University Wisconsin and a Bachelor of Science from Carroll University. He is also a Credentialed Manager through the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), and an active member of ICMA, the Wisconsin City/County Management Association (WCMA), and other relevant professional organizations. His broad range of expertise includes intergovernmental cooperation, shared service agreements, media relations, utility oversight, and grant administration.

Thyes is expected to begin his role in West Bend on Monday, August 11.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.