New employee will manage day-to-day operations under mayor and council guidelines
The town of Century approved the hiring of a city manager last Monday and operations manager Eddy 'Buz' Edwin agreed to serve as interim city manager in the meantime and participate in the hiring and interview process.
A Request For Proposals (RFP) will be developed and sent out next week, according to Century Mayor Henry Hawkins.
“I think it's a great idea,” said Hawkins. “The city manager and I will work closely together. We can't have it any other way. They will actually run the city. All employees will work under them.”
Hawkins said whoever serves in that position will be a 'buffer' between him and the council.
“They need to listen to somebody,” he said. “If you pay somebody enough, maybe they'll listen to them.”
Eddy told the council that since he has been working for the town, he sees this opportunity as 'absolutely necessary' for the town to do.
“I think a number of things I've had the opportunity to work on would be the tip of the iceberg for somebody who would actually apply for and be appointed to this position,” said Eddy. “Someone who would get to understand city facilities, city finances, issues very close to the operations of the town, things on the ground and making plans for the future. I hardily recommend the town council start down that path by adopting this resolution and authorize the staff to prepare an advertisement for that position so we can advertise right away.”
Councilwoman Ann Brooks asked Eddy is he would be active in interviewing and recommending a city manager for the town.
Eddy told the council how he has helped other municipalities find qualified individuals and advised targeting Troy University in Troy, Ala., which has a public administration program.
“There are a number of agencies in Escambia County (Fla.) that are anxious to assist the town of Century,” said Eddy. “I think those agencies and administrative personnel within those agencies would also assist the new person.”
In a motion made by Councilwoman Sandra McMurray-Jackson and seconded by Councilman Ben Boutwell, the motion carried.
Eddy advised the council might look at the organizational chart for the town to assure Eddy places the city manager in the place the council is comfortable with and that an interim city manager should be in place.
When Eddy assured he could serve as interim if that is what the council was comfortable with, he would continue.
In a motion made by Councilman Boutwell, which was seconded by Councilwoman McMurray-Jackson, the motion carried.
