Mayor-elect Steve Noble doing a lot of listening as he prepares for new job

County Executive Mike Hein and Democratic mayoral candidate Steve Noble chat on the way to Hein’s campaign kickoff event back on Sept. 28. (Photo: Dan Barton)

“The money is all still there, it’s just a matter of how it gets shaped,” said Noble. “It could be one position or it could be several part-time positions.”

A new leadership paradigm

Gallo, who ran an acrimonious primary campaign against Noble, has complained bitterly about his loss. Three months after his September defeat at the hands of the political newcomer, Gallo continues to characterize Noble as unqualified and a pawn of an entrenched “Good Old Boys” network.

But Noble said the lingering bitterness had not impeded the transition, despite the fact that he has not spoken to the mayor — and does not plan to before taking office.

“There’s just … so many layers there,” said Noble of his lack of contact with Gallo.

Noble said he’s focused his outreach efforts on department heads and other key staff and that he sensed among their ranks a readiness to embrace a change at the top and a new leadership style.

“The way I hope to lead is different from what [city employees] have had the past few years,” said Noble. “I want to energize and embolden them and give them the leeway to do new, creative things. I think it’s exciting for anyone when their boss tells them that.”

Noble was hesitant to discuss day-one changes under his administration, saying too much would depend on budgetary concerns and that he was still waiting to hear from some department heads on their goals and objectives.

But when asked about the “Parking for Mayor Only” sign that Gallo put up four years ago, viewed by some city employees as a hallmark of his autocratic style, Noble did not hesitate.

“I plan to be at my desk a lot and I’ll need to walk as much as possible,” said Noble, smiling. “The sign is coming down.”