Joe Petty Named New Town Manager of Front Royal

The Town of Front Royal has officially announced the appointment of Joseph W. Petty as its new Town Manager. Chosen unanimously by the Town Council after a competitive selection process, Petty will begin his new role on Monday, April 14, 2025.

Petty, a native of Front Royal, brings more than 15 years of experience in planning, zoning, and business and economic development to the position. His career includes both private sector leadership and public service, making him uniquely qualified to lead the town into its next chapter.

Mayor Lori Cockrell expressed strong support for the appointment, noting her prior experience working with Petty. “Joe has always shown an excellent work ethic, a positive outlook, and a keen ability to communicate with citizens, staff, and elected officials,” she said. “He has a passion and a true understanding of our community which made him the best candidate to continue moving Front Royal forward.”

Petty is a graduate of George Mason University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree before launching a career that began in business development. He served as Vice President of Operations for a development organization focused on attracting both commercial and residential projects. In 2018, he returned to his hometown, where he has since played key roles in Warren County’s Planning & Zoning and Economic Development departments.

Most recently, Petty served as the Executive Director of the Front Royal-Warren County Economic Development Authority (EDA) and later as the Executive Director of the Warren Heritage Society, strengthening his ties to the community through both economic initiatives and historic preservation.

Petty has also maintained active involvement in civic and leadership organizations, including the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials (VAZO) and the Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA). His broad network and local roots are expected to serve him well as he steps into a demanding leadership role.

“I am honored by the opportunity the Town Council has entrusted to me in becoming the next Town Manager of Front Royal,” Petty said in a statement. “I am ready to work with the Council, staff, and the community to maintain and enhance our wonderful quality of life.”

As Town Manager, Petty will oversee the daily operations of a municipality that serves over 15,000 residents across ten square miles. Front Royal provides essential services including electricity, water, sewer, solid waste, and police protection. Petty will lead a staff of 177 employees and manage a $51 million budget, with approximately $33 million designated to enterprise funds.

Town Council officials praised Petty’s experience in both public administration and community engagement. His understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing small towns in Virginia is seen as a major asset as Front Royal continues to grow and adapt.

The Town Manager’s office is located at 102 E. Main Street, and Petty will be available to engage with residents and community stakeholders starting mid-April. The office can be reached at 540-635-8007.

With his deep ties to the region and a proven track record in both government and civic life, Joseph W. Petty steps into the role of Town Manager with broad community support and a clear mission—to build on Front Royal’s strengths and support its future development.