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Fort Madison City Manager Resigning

Fort Madison is in the market for a new city manager, as Byron Smith has resigned after five years on the job.

The city will need to act quickly to replace Smith because he will only be in Fort Madison until August 15.

Smith is leaving to become city manager of Hermiston, Ore., a city of roughly 17,000 people in the northern portion of the state. 

The Hermiston City Council approved the hiring this week.

Smith said the move will allow his family to be closer to other members of his family. 

Fort Madison Mayor Brad Randolph said he is disappointed to see him go, but he understands that this is the nature of the business for a city manager.

"I can't blame him for wanting to better himself and better his family and take on more responsibility," said Randolph.  "I think that is great for him."

Randolph said aldermen are expected to accept the resignation and possibly choose a search firm when they meet Tuesday night.  He said Smith kept him in the loop about the possible move, so he has already sent out for requests from possible search firms.

Randolph said to help in the transition, he will hold office hours two days each week and he will meet more often with department heads and Smith to review ongoing projects.

Jason Parrott is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.