KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Charlie Van Zant Jr. was hired as the new city manager in January. More than 100 days into his new job, he said time flies when you're having fun.

"I'm loving it and the great people I work with. It's rewarding to give back to the community I grew up in." Van Zant said. 

"The people are the highlight of the job, such as interacting with citizens and working with the public works – great guys. They do a good job keeping the city looking welcoming."

One of Van Zant's first tasks as city manager was purchasing the lot on the intersection of State Roads 100 and 21, which was scheduled to be finalized on April 1. 

Van Zant said his role as city manager has changed the pace from previous jobs, notably as Superintendent of Clay County District Schools and Lieutenant Colonel of the Florida National Guard. With those past two positions, in particular, Van Zant relied on his managerial style to delegate tasks. 

He said a small community like Keystone Heights with a smaller staff requires a more hands-on approach.  As city manager, his goal is to execute the city council's vision, especially they develop a strategic plan in the coming months. He said he fostered a professional relationship with each city council member, and they knew each other previously before he was hired for the job. 

"None of us didn't know each other," he said. 

Van Zant's father was Councilmember Tony Brown's pastor. He is neighbors with Mayor Nina Rodenroth. 

Van Zant moved to the city in 1981. Before he could propose to his wife, Stephanie, he had to take her back to his hometown as if to say, "This is who I am. This is where I come from." His upbringing in Keystone Heights is a fundamental aspect of who he is. 

He was a pilot during his service in the military. He said, on occasion, he would fly for two hours, swoop down at the Keystone Heights airport, grab a coffee and return to the skies. He was deployed to Afghanistan, where he supported navigation operations. 

Van Zant is excited about the city's centennial next year. He wants to preserve the city's history and expand new horizons. 

"This is a brand-new chapter. I've always been mission-focused. Applying for city manager felt like the right thing to do. Citizens deserve every bit of attention as I have with every student or soldier," he said. 

He says there is an open-door policy as city manager. 

"If someone often comes into the office, I'll recognize the voice. Everyone's input is valuable. I am honored to serve the citizens of Keystone and welcome their input."