Keokuk, IA – Keokuk's first city administrator is stepping down after less than 3 months on the job.
Odis Jones is set to end his brief run in Keokuk after accepting a position with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.
The city, through a brief press release, says Jones will lead the state's Urban Development Fund and Portfields initiative, which work to stimulate community investment and identify development opportunities.
Jones will start his new job March 3.
It's unclear when his final day will be in Keokuk.
After interviewing 3 candidates, the Keokuk City Council offered Jones the jobs of city administrator and city clerk in early October.
Lengthy contract negotiations led to him starting the week of November 12 at an annual salary of $93,000 plus benefits.
His contract states that Jones will not be eligible for any severance package if he voluntarily resigns his position.
Mayor Dave Gudgel says that in Jones' brief tenure, it has become evident that the position of city administrator is indeed needed in order for the city to professionally and economically move forward.
Gudgel would not comment further, simply referring to the city's press release.
It is unclear how the city council will proceed with replacing Jones as his departure will leave Keokuk without a city administrator and a city clerk.
Tonight's meeting, which gets underway at 6:00, will be the first time the full council has been together since the announcement.