Staff writer
Marion City Council discussed options to filling the economic development director position vacated by Roger Holter after he was hired to be city administrator.
“I believe the position needs to be filled so we can continue to move forward with city development,” Holter said. “I’m recommending we advertise and fill the position as soon as possible.”
Holter also recommended merging the position with the zoning administration position.
“If the person has the responsibility of working with the planning and zoning commissions and the council, they will be in tune with the growth plan and have a better capacity to make sure and fit decisions for the city,” he said.
This way the city’s plan and the planning and zoning plans head down the same path, said Holter.
“We’ve already received a few resumes from people interested in the position,” he said.
The council recommended Holter make the changes to job description to present before the next council meeting Monday before advertising for the position. A timeline and hiring process will also be discussed.
Holter hopes to have the position filled by April 1.
“It should take about 90 days to complete the process in a professional manner,” Holter said.
“I want to make sure you will be available to help this new person whenever he or she needs it,” Mayor Mary Olson said.
Holter agreed to mentor the future economic development director as long as needed.
In other business
- The council agreed to accept bids for planning services for the planning commission to assist the commission to better understand how city land is being used. The services will include a land-use analysis, recommendations on the city’s comprehensive growth plan, and a complete review and recommendation of current zoning policies.
- Holter discussed advertising available positions for city appointed committees. Holter said advertising would not change the appointment process, but he hopes increases interest in the positions and engage a larger section of the community.
- The council met in executive session to discuss personnel for 15 minutes. No action was taken on return to open session.