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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- City of Colorado Springs officials announced Thursday morning that Steven W. Cox has been appointed interim city manager after last week's announcement by currrent city manager Penny Culbreth-Graft that she will resign effective April 16.

Cox is a Colorado Springs native who began his public service career in 1981. Cox has spent 29 years with the City of Colorado Springs Fire Department, sworn in as Colorado Springs fire chief on Oct. 11, 2008.  

Cox has served in many key positions, in addition to fire chief and assistant city manager, including firefighter, driver engineer, lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, and deputy chief. His experience includes both emergency operations and support services. 

In 2008 Cox was appointed acting assistant city manager, overseeing planning, streets, public works, traffic operations, engineering, public communications and legislative affairs.

“Chief Cox is a solid choice for us during these uncertain economic times with budget constraints, community dialogs regarding governance models and our work to redefine how we best deliver city services to our citizens. He has the respect of the senior staff, the city workforce and community, and understands the challenges we are facing.  Steve has been serving on executive staff under City Manager Penny Culbreth-Graft and is up to speed with our strategies and goals. He is a trong leader and has city council's unanimous support as our interim city manager,” said Mayor Lionel Rivera.

Cox holds an associate degree from Pikes Peak Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Regis University. He will complete his Master's Degree in organizational leadership in 2010.   Significant commendations include:  Firefighter of the Year–1996; Pikes Peak Lodging Association; Medal of Valor, Colorado Springs Fire Department–1995; Governor Roy Romer’s Award for Courage–Off Duty Rescue of Elderly Victims and Medal of Distinguished Service in 2010.

Cox will take over as acting city manager on April 16, when Culbreth-Graft departs.

Appointment of an acting fire chief is expected before April 16.

Watch FOX21 News at 6:30 and FOX21 News at 9 for more information and an interview with Steve Cox.