Macomb, IL – The city administrator's office at Macomb City Hall has been empty since mid-April. But it appears the search for someone new is almost over.
The candidate pool, which started at 30, is now down to three. The finalists come from different states and each one visited the city this month.
Mayor Mick Wisslead hopes aldermen will have their opinions about the candidates in order by next Monday so they can make a decision. The city will then do a more extensive background check on the top choice. In addition, two aldermen will visit the person's current city to doublecheck references.
Wisslead hopes to have the new city administrator in office by the first of the year.
You can listen to an interview with Macomb Mayor Mick Wisslead by clicking on the audio button.
Additional information:
*The person chosen will replace Mike Hays. After Wisslead was elected to a second term he chose not to reappoint Hays, who cleared out his office in mid-April.
*In a written statement issued April 16, Hays said he was not surprised by Wisslead's decision. He declined to elaborate when reporters asked about the situation.
*Hays was paid around $86,000 per year. He continued to be paid by the city until last month. His severance package also included a $22,000 lump sum payment for accrued vacation and comp time.