Shawnee is in the process of looking for a new city manager. This can be a real learning experience, for many reasons.
Our former city manager held that position for about thirteen years and prior to that her predecessor held it for about 28 years. She had served as his deputy and then upon his retirement moved into the top spot.
This time Shawnee is doing things a little differently, and justifiably so. One thing I have heard many times over at the Mayor's Third Thursdays is that folks like the fact that Shawnee is a city with a small town feel but with many of the advantages of a big city. Guess that comes from being a major suburb in a large metro area.
Because of Shawnee's growth, and many changes and advancements over the years it is imperative that the city casts a wide net to find the best qualified person for that position. The process has started with the city asking for proposals from executive search companies. Many "small" cities used to select their leadership based on either the next one in line or a favorite of the good old boy network.
Shawnee has, IMHO grown past that. If anybody falls into those two categories and is desirous of serving in that position they need to apply, just like anybody else. Anybody who attempts to hijack the process by pushing for a "good old boy" needs to be resoundingly cut down.
Let the process play out. The city and its citizens deserve that. It will be very interesting to see the qualifications of those who do apply.
