Finley, Santa Paula’s Public Works Director/City Engineer who was directing Special Projects before he became interim city manager, has broad city experience that Luna said includes Port Hueneme and Santa Paula. “He’s more than capable of doing the job, is a local resident” and a fourth generation Santa Paulan that is “very passionate about Santa Paula.”In addition, Finley “never tried to influence my votes” when the Council was considering a system for the new water recycling plant. “That tells me a lot about his character,” said Luna, who noted he has not discussed the subject with Finley or any members of the Council.“I think it’s a great opportunity for us to have in the city of Santa Paula” someone who is “so capable” and who, Luna said, has already demonstrated strong leadership skills. “Another thing,” said Luna, “you as the council have the power to do away with the list of the applicants if you’re not happy with them.” “Did you formally apply?” Vice Mayor Jim Tovias asked Finley. Finley confirmed he had applied for the position.
City Manager recruitment brings 75 applicants
October 02, 2009
Santa Paula City Council
Seventy-five candidates applied for the position of City Manager, the Council learned at the September 21 meeting, which featured comments from a former Mayor who strongly urged that Interim City Manager Cliff Finley be considered for the job.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesSeventy-five candidates applied for the position of City Manager, the Council learned at the September 21 meeting, which featured comments from a former Mayor who strongly urged that Interim City Manager Cliff Finley be considered for the job.Human Resources Director Kathy Campbell told the Council that Bob Murray & Associates received 75 applications for the job vacated by City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz in July when he departed to lead Evanston, Illinois. Interviews with finalists will be held next month, and Campbell said she met with employee groups and has continued to collect community input via the city’s website.The recruiter is “doing some initial screening this week, going through the minimal qualifications” to determine those candidates “he thinks are of the highest quality,” said Campbell.“The reason I am appearing here today is I’m basically asking you to consider going in house,” a subject former Councilman and Mayor Ray Luna said he is “passionate about.... We’ve hired from the outside before,” often for tenures lasting only a few years. Luna added, “During these economic times” an outside candidate would probably be much more, and “I am going to mention a name I would consider if I was sitting in your position.”
