New Hope Selects City Manager from Beaufort, South Carolina

The city of New Hope announced Reece Bertholf as its next city manager on May 4.

Bertholf, deputy city manager for the city of Beaufort, South Carolina, was one of six candidates to interview for the role with the city this week.

“I am ecstatic to join the New Hope community,” Bertholf said in a press release. “It is clear that people love New Hope, and I am very excited to work alongside the amazing team at the city of New Hope. The passion I felt for New Hope from everyone involved in the hiring process was remarkable. We have a bright future ahead as we continue to work together to achieve the goals of New Hope.”

The New Hope City Council still has to sign off on his appointment and contract. The council is expected to vote on the issue at its May 8 meeting. If approved, his first day will be June 12.

The city of New Hope announed Reece Bertholf as its next city manager.

“Reece Bertholf will be an asset to our community,” said New Hope Mayor Kathi Hemken. “His positive attitude and upbeat personality fit well with our staff and council. We are fortunate to have him join our team.”

Bertholf, a former U.S. Marine, has worked for the city of Beaufort since 2001. He served in various roles in the fire department including firefighter, lieutenant, battalion supervisor and fire chief. He also served as assistant city manager before serving as deputy city manager.  

Police Chief Tim Hoyt has been serving as New Hope’s city manager since former manager Kirk McDonald retired in June 2022. 

Bertholf was one of 33 candidates for the city manager position.

He has a master’s degree in business administration from Citadel Graduate School in Charleston, South Carolina. He also has a certificate in public leadership from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.  

New Hope