The initial steps in Salisbury’s search for a new city manager are underway.
Mayor Paul Woodson Jr. said the city has received information from four search firms in regards to assisting the city in the search for a permanent replacement for former City Manager Doug Paris. Paris’ contract was terminated by City Council in June after he met with council members in an hours-long closed-session meeting. At the time, both sides said the decision was mutual but would not specify the reasons for Paris’ departure.
Woodson said the information about the search firms will be provided to council members and a vote on whether the city should hire a firm will likely take place during the next regular council meeting Oct. 7. He said the cost of using a firm will be a big factor in council’s decision whether to use one.
Woodson said the city will do a “very thorough search” for a new city manager and won’t try to fast track anything. “We’re gonna take our time and make sure we get the right person,” he said.
When the city was looking for a replacement for longtime city manager David Treme after he retired in 2011, a firm, called SpringSted, was hired for $15,700, according to Mayor Pro Tem Maggie Blackwell.
Blackwell said the search for Treme’s replacement took nine-and-a-half months, and that council wants the current search to be done in less time than that.
Asked about potential candidates for the job, Woodson said he’s sure there will be current city employees who apply for the job. He also said council might look at candidates from the private sector to fill the role. He said having someone with a business background could be useful to the city when it comes to running Fibrant, the city-owned high speed internet service.
Blackwell said she thinks potential candidates should have experience in running a city.
“I think it is definitely important to look at a seasoned city manager who has a strong financial background,” she said.
As the search process goes along, Assistant City Manager John Sofley is acting as interim city manager. Sofley has been working for the city for over 25 years. He said the biggest difference he’s noticed since taking the reins is the significant increase in time commitment.
Sofley said he plans to apply for the city manager position when the time comes. Until then, he said, the city’s staff will continue to move forward toward their goals and provide for the city’s residents.
Both Woodson and Blackwell said the city has a great staff. And Woodson said Sofley will certainly be considered for the position if he applies.