Ms. Tina Volek, City Administrator, retired on September 30, 2017.  Prior to Ms. Volek's departure, the City Council conducted a Request for Proposal for Executive Search Services for her position. The Mercer Group, Inc., was selected and the City Council began working with James L. Mercer, President/CEO.  

On July 10 - 12, 2017, Mr. Mercer met with the City Council, the City Leadership Team, and the Ad Hoc Council Advisory Committee appointed by City Councilmembers to provide input on their views of what characteristics a future Billings City Administrator should possess.

On September 25, 2017, City Council appointed Bruce McCandless as Interim City Administrator.

The City Administrator position was advertised and the first review of applications was conducted on October 6, 2017, with the position remaining open until filled. Mr. Mercer will recommend approximately 5 to 7 candidates on October 30, and the City Council will make the final decision on which and how many candidates will be interviewed.

City Council may:

• Select finalists for the City Administrator position from the group of applicants recommended by Mr. Mercer, or;
• Select candidates who may be  outside of the group of applicants recommended by Mr. Mercer, or;
• Continue advertising  the position for an extended period of time in order  to recruit additional applicants for the position.

There is no financial impact at this time.

Staff recommends that the City Council select applicants as finalists for the City Administrator position.