Erik Zimmer, a former city manager who had served from 2013-2017 and then resigned to relocate to Albuquerque, New Mexico, was brought back as a candidate for the city manager job. The council, with Zimmer present, discussed the matter in open forum.
Council, Ward 5, Rick Stephens brought forth the action item. Even before council voted, Zimmer hit the ground running, announcing a 180-day plan if hired. He indicated that the three most important priorities for the city were staffing, budget, and training. Stephens asked Zimmer what an acceptable salary would be, and Zimmer said he would not accept anything less than $145,000 a year. Stephens then made a motion that the city rehire Zimmer as city manager with full salary, benefits, and a city vehicle.
Council voted him in effective immediately.
