City manager replacement search, interim decision go to board Thursday

Methods for finding a new city manager and choosing someone as an interim manager until that selection process runs its course will go before the Carson City Board of Supervisors on Thursday.

Back-to-back items on the next board agenda call for discussion and possible action on those matters because City Manager Larry Werner has resigned, effective Dec. 19. The first item deals with the process board members want to use for a permanent selection. The second calls for discussion and possible action on appointing an interim city manager, effective Dec. 20.

Though nothing has been determined, discussion may center initially on whether to retain an outside firm to handle the search process or handle it without such a firm. Indications are several firms have been vetted by the city’s human resources department, and more than one may be laid before the mayor and supervisors for their consideration.

Soon after Werner’s announced resignation, supervisor Jim Shirk called for quick action to proceed with a national search by such a firm, but Supervisor John McKenna questioned whether that process is still the best method. He preferred time be taken in looking for a Werner replacement. Mayor Robert Crowell also mentioned prospects for a national search but didn’t seem in a hurry to act before next Thursday.

Supervisors Brad Bonkowski and Karen Abowd didn’t seem in any hurry either, nor did they tip their hands on what type of search they want conducted.

Deputy City Manager Marena Works, asked twice by the Nevada Appeal whether she would apply for the permanent post and once if she wanted it, declined each time to state her intentions. To the third question, she said she wanted to see what the board did regarding the process first.

The meeting will take place at 8:30 a.m. Thursday in the Sierra Room of the Community Center.