With Clarkston’s new police chief finally settled in, city officials are preparing to start the search process all over again’this time for a city manager.
And a treasurer, and a clerk.
City Manager Art Pappas, who recently announced plans to retire, currently holds all three positions.
The city council is considering two new hires to replace Pappas, perhaps even three, but agreed the details need to be discussed at length before any decisions are made.
Pappas has served as manager, clerk and treasurer for many years, somewhat blurring the functions of each.
To find a replacement, a steering committee consisting of Mayor Sharron Catallo, and council members Kristy Ottman and Charles Inabnit, both of whom sat on the Police Chief Selection Committee, was formed at the Nov. 26 council meeting.
The group met with Michigan Municipal League consultant Heather VanPoucker recently, and passed recommendations on to remaining council members Monday.
‘Her suggestion was for the entire council to be in on the interview and decision-making process,? Inabnit said, noting VanPoucker also advised the group to clearly define the roles, expectations and pay scale for all three positions before advertising the vacancy publicly.
The MML services were provided at no charge to the city.
VanPoucker provided the group with literature, questionnaires and an overview of a typical executive search process to aid in the initial stages of the hiring process.
But, as Pappas prepares for retirement, the council said they would depend heavily on his leadership and experience to help find qualified replacements.
‘Who knows better about what we should look for in the candidates coming in,? said Councilman Mike Gawronski, ‘than the guy going out??