The Salina City Commission has initiated the process to search for a new city manager following the resignation of current City Manager Michael Schrage, effective February 7, 2025.
During their January 27 meeting, commissioners discussed the next steps in the selection process. After deliberation, the commission reached a consensus to conduct a formal search for candidates, rather than immediately appointing an internal candidate.
Commissioners expressed varying opinions on the necessity of a search, with some initially favoring appointing Deputy City Manager Jacob Wood to the position. However, the majority ultimately agreed that a search would be appropriate to ensure transparency and explore all options.
Human Resources Director Natalie Fischer was instructed to solicit proposals from executive search firms. The commission requested proposals from 5-10 firms, preferably those with experience in the Midwest region. Fischer will distribute requests for proposals immediately, with responses due by February 14.
The commission plans to review the search firm proposals at an upcoming meeting. They discussed the potential scope of services to request from firms, including assistance with developing a candidate profile, conducting public listening sessions, and various levels of involvement in the search process.
Commissioners noted that the search process could take several months, based on their experience hiring the previous city manager in 2018. They emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity in city operations during the transition period.
The commission plans to further discuss their expectations for the new city manager and refine the search parameters as the process moves forward. The next steps will involve selecting a search firm and determining the specific services and timeline for the city manager search.
