TO: COMMITTEE FOR CITY MANAGER RECRUITMENT

FROM: CITY MANAGER

DATE: AUGUST 1, 2006

SUBJECT: CITY MANAGER RECRUITMENT

RECOMMENDATION
Select an executive search firm to conduct the recruitment for a new City Manager; direct the City Manager and City Attorney to prepare an appropriate contract for professional services; and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement.

BACKGROUND
On May 2, 2006 the City Council received a letter from the City Manager announcing his intention to terminate his employment with the City at the end of the working day on December 21, 2006. The Mayor had previously appointed Councilmembers Clark and Stern as an Ad Hoc Committee to make recommendations to the City Council on how to proceed with recruitment of a new City Manager.

The Ad Hoc Committee proposed that the City Council initiate the recruitment process by selecting a recruiting firm to develop a list of qualified candidates. The following firms submitted proposals to perform the requested service and have been interviewed by the City Council:

- Bob Murray & Associates
- Avery Associates
- Ralph Andersen & Associates

Information about each firm and their proposals have previously been provided to each Councilmember.

DISCUSSION
All three firms are well-qualified to provide the executive search and all three firms estimate similar fees of $25,000 - $28,000. After a discussion of the merits of each firm the City Council may wish to proceed with a written ballot as they do with appointments to City commissions and committees.

Respectfully Submitted,

Les Evans
City Manager