Published on August 14, 2026 (www.lakewoodco.gov)

Lakewood City Council has announced it has selected Jonathan Cain as the city’s new city manager.

Cain impressed City Council with his dedication to the community and his ability to bring people together to build consensus. He showed he already has in-depth knowledge of numerous Lakewood issues and that he will prioritize building relationships, meeting people where they are and working with the community.

“I was inspired,” said Mayor Wendi Strom. “Jonathan is the right person for Lakewood, and for me, it has to do with his ability to see things from multiple perspectives, his empathy for others and his attention to detail. He also feels very passionately that government is a service industry.”

Cain is currently Nederland’s town manager, where he has led the acquisition and transition of the Eldora Mountain Resort to municipal ownership. He also has guided the continuing recovery efforts following a major downtown fire. He was part of the state’s Best and Brightest Program, and his full biography is available at LakewoodCO.gov/CityManager.

“I believe local government’s purpose is to help the community solve hard problems with honesty, discipline, and trust,” Cain said. “I lived in Lakewood previously for 10 years, and I know the community contains great talent and ideas. I am truly honored to be selected, and I am fully dedicated to continuing to foster that culture.”

Cain was selected following a national search for a new city manager after the retirement of Kathy Hodgson, who served in the role for the past 18 years. City Council narrowed the field to five finalists from which Cain was selected. At its Aug. 24 meeting, City Council will formally approve his contract.

– Lakewood –

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