Thornton, Colo., Taps Former Dallas CIO Bill Zielinski
Bill Zielinski, a veteran public-sector technology leader, has been named chief information officer for Thornton, Colo., after working at Gartner and serving as Dallas's CIO. During his nearly four years in Dallas, the city pursued network upgrades, 911 communications improvements, a new HR system and a regional public safety radio project. His career also includes federal technology roles, including CIO of the Social Security Administration and work at the General Services Administration.
Bill Zielinski said on LinkedIn Sunday that he is taking the CIO role in Thornton, Colo. The city had not replied to a media inquiry about the hire. He led Dallas technology operations from June 2020 until April 2024, nearly four years.
In Dallas, his portfolio included network modernization, 911 communications, a new HR platform, an internet-access pilot, and recurring IT security and performance reports. He also helped advance a regional P25 public safety radio effort. Later, at Gartner, he advised government technology leaders. His prior federal service included SSA CIO and GSA IT acquisition work.
Thornton residents and city staff could eventually see changes in digital services, cybersecurity, and emergency communications as Zielinski sets technology priorities. His Dallas experience with 911 systems, regional public safety radio, and internet-access efforts may inform how Thornton addresses similar infrastructure and equity questions. Regional agencies could also benefit if he pursues interjurisdictional coordination. Still, a CIO appointment alone may not quickly alter services; outcomes will depend on budgets, staffing, council direction, and operational execution.