Council prioritizes permanent city manager hiring for budget planning

In a recent meeting of the Tacoma Operational Strategy and Administrative Committee, discussions centered on the urgent need to appoint a permanent city manager, a decision that could significantly impact the city's governance and operations. Committee members emphasized that the hiring of a permanent city manager is crucial for moving forward with various initiatives, including the recruitment of a new police chief and other key positions.

The committee highlighted that the absence of a permanent city manager has led to delays in critical decisions, with many actions being postponed until this key role is filled. Members expressed the importance of solidifying this position as soon as possible, particularly as the city enters a new budget year. The quicker the city can secure a permanent manager, the sooner the new council can begin implementing their plans and addressing community needs.

To facilitate this process, the committee proposed a budget of $70,000 to $75,000 for recruitment efforts. This budget will cover candidate expenses, including travel and accommodations for potential out-of-state applicants. The committee acknowledged the possibility of attracting candidates from outside the region, which could enhance the pool of talent available for the role.

As Tacoma prepares for this significant transition, the focus remains on ensuring that the new city manager can hit the ground running, laying a strong foundation for the council's future initiatives. The outcomes of this meeting reflect a commitment to effective governance and responsiveness to the community's needs, setting the stage for a more stable and proactive city administration.