The search for Battle Creek's next city manager is heating up, with four finalists vying for the position left vacant since Rebecca Flurry's retirement in November 2024. The city has enlisted SGR to assist in recruiting and vetting candidates, and the public will have a chance to meet these contenders at a special event on August 6.

The finalists include:

1. **Burke** - Former township administrator for Westchester Township, Ohio, with a background in environmental science and public administration.
2. **Amanda Zimmerman** - Currently the city manager of Clayton, Ohio, she has experience as an assistant city administrator in Springdale, Ohio.
3. **Matt Hartline** - Recently served as village manager in Villa Park, Illinois, and has a strong academic background in biology and public administration.
4. **Carl Gefkin** - Former city manager of Fort Smith, Arkansas, with extensive experience in public service and a solid educational foundation in economics and business administration.

The meet-and-greet event will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton from 5:30 PM to 7 PM, allowing residents to engage with the candidates, ask questions, and provide feedback to city officials. Following this, the candidates will face a final interview with the city commission on August 7.

In addition to the city manager search, residents are reminded of the upcoming Public Works open house on July 30, featuring city vehicles, a scavenger hunt, and food options, showcasing the essential services that keep Battle Creek running smoothly.