After 15 years as Montrose’s city manager, Bill Bell is now Grand Junction’s community development director. He was scheduled to start his new duties Nov. 2.

The City of Grand Junction said in a news release that Bell brings more than 24 years of experience in local government, including extensive leadership in municipal administration, economic development, urban renewal and community planning.

Bell served as city manager for the City of Montrose from 2011 to 2026. During that time, he also served as executive director of the Montrose Urban Renewal Authority, where he helped lead redevelopment initiatives, encourage private investment and support economic growth throughout the community.

As Grand Junction’s community development director, Bell will oversee the city’s planning, development review, building and related community-development functions.

Bell has strong ties to the Grand Junction area and Western Slope. Raised in the Cedaredge and Palisade areas, he attended Central High School in Grand Junction before completing his education in Wyoming. He has bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal justice and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Wyoming.

“The timing of this opportunity feels serendipitous, and I am eager to hit the ground running,” Bell said. “I have spent my career bringing people together and finding opportunities to strengthen communities. I am excited to bring that experience back home to Grand Junction and work alongside city staff, residents and the development community to build on the progress already under way.”

According to the news release, Bell has held leadership positions in municipalities across Colorado, Wisconsin and Nebraska. His experience includes overseeing planning and development functions, managing municipal operations, working with elected officials and developing partnerships to support community and economic development goals.

In Montrose, Bell helped establish the Montrose Urban Renewal Authority and supported redevelopment efforts that leveraged public investment to attract private development. His work included projects involving housing, commercial development, historic preservation and the revitalization of underutilized properties.

Bell has been involved in statewide and national municipal leadership organizations, previously serving as president of the Colorado Municipal League and the Colorado City & County Management Association. In 2026, he was named City Manager of the Year by Gov Business Review and has been recognized by the International City/County Management Association for his commitment to professional development and leadership in local government.

“Bill is the right person at the right time for this key leadership role,” Grand Junction City Manager Mike Bennett said. “I am keenly aware of his strengths, expertise, leadership style and the results he has produced on the Western Slope. Bill’s experience and ability to build relationships will continue the momentum and move us forward.”