Staff writer
Marion economic development director and zoning administrator Roger Holter added another title to his list at Monday’s City Council meeting after the council appointed him to the position of interim city administrator.
Holter will take up resigning administrator Doug Kjellin’s position beginning Sept. 25 and complete city administrator’s duties until the position is filled.
“In the short time he has been here, he has proven he wants to be proactive and have a plan for the city to grow,” said Mayor Mary Olson. “I’m certain he will do a good job and I hope everyone can get behind him and we can all work together. He has a plan for the city and I’m excited.”
Council set the date of Oct. 31 to have applications for the city administrator position returned to be considered. They hope to fill the position no later than Dec. 31.
Holter said he is excited about the position on council, and will apply for the full-time city administrator position.
“As city administrator, I would have the opportunity to impact services people see and interact with daily and make sure the city develops the best possible services to bring people and business’s into town,” Holter said. “I like the policy side and the fast pace better, so I think it would be a better fit for me.”
Holter will be busy keeping up with three positions.
“It will be difficult, but I’m excited about the opportunity and looking forward to engaging with staff and residents and hopefully changing policies from reactive to proactive,” he said.