Flagstaff’s Search for a New City Manager: What You Need to Know

As Flagstaff embarks on the journey to find a new city manager, community engagement and feedback are at the forefront of this significant process. Understanding the importance of this role and the meticulous selection journey can help residents feel more connected and involved.

The Importance of the City Manager Role

The city manager is a pivotal figure within Flagstaff’s governance, particularly given the city’s Council-Manager form of government. In this structure, the city council hires the city manager, who then assumes responsibility for implementing the council’s policies and overseeing day-to-day operations. This dual accountability creates a unique dynamic, one that requires a leader able to balance community desires with fiscal responsibility.

Farewell to Greg Clifton

The impending retirement of Greg Clifton marks the end of an era. Widely regarded as an extraordinary leader, Clifton has been instrumental in fostering a city culture focused on customer service, innovation, and budget-consciousness. His foresight in announcing his retirement well in advance allowed the city council ample time to prepare for the transition, ensuring a smooth and strategic process for finding his successor.

The Search Process

To find the ideal candidate, the city council engaged Duffy Group, a recruitment firm with extensive experience in identifying executive talent for city governments. After deliberating on the necessary skills and qualities for the new manager, the process was set into motion. This involved nationwide outreach, advertising the position, and conducting a rigorous screening of applicants.

Key Dates on the Timeline

• Sept. 25: The council convened in an executive session to evaluate applicants who passed the initial screening.
• Oct. 2: Another executive session took place, featuring video screenings of selected candidates, leading to the identification of finalists.
• Oct. 22: This day is earmarked for in-person interviews with the finalists, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate.
• Oct. 23: A session is scheduled for reflecting on feedback received from the community and making a final decision on the new city manager.

What to Expect on Interview Day

Interview day on October 22 will be formulated to provide multi-faceted insights into the candidates’ qualifications and fit for the role. The day will include:

• Presentations by candidates to an extended leadership team panel.
• Panel interviews with city leadership.
• Direct interactions with the city council.
• Engagements with a community partner panel.
• A meet-and-greet session with city staff.
• An open community forum for residents to ask questions and express their thoughts.

Community Engagement is Key

Recognizing the importance of public input, the city council is eager to hear from as many community members as possible during the public meet and greet scheduled for October 22, from 5 to 7 p.m. This event represents an invaluable opportunity for residents to interact directly with the candidates and convey their feedback to the council.

A Commitment to Transparency and Collaboration

Becky Daggett, the mayor of Flagstaff, emphasizes that the process of hiring the city manager is a shared responsibility. The council is committed to considering feedback from community members, city staff, and partner organizations, ensuring that the selection process is transparent and collaborative.

Daggett articulates her dedication to maintaining momentum on critical projects while remaining open to innovative ideas from the new manager. Her invitation to the community to participate in this process underscores the council’s belief in the power of collective input and engagement.

This approach to leadership recruitment reflects a broader commitment to fostering a responsive and accountable city government, further enhancing Flagstaff’s reputation as a community that values citizen involvement in governance.