Bayfield this week announced one finalist for the permanent town manager position, Katie Sickles, the town’s current interim manager.
The town received 26 applications for the position, although only Sickles met the minimum requirements in the job description. State statute requires the town post the finalist for two weeks before making an offer. Negotiations are going smoothly during the required public notice period, said Mayor Matt Salka.
“We want to do everything by the book,” Salka said. “It is a formality that needs to take place.”
The town looked for 10 years of experience and relevant education background, among other requirements. While every candidate’s application was reviewed, the town interviewed only Sickles. The position opened when former Town Manager Chris La May resigned in January.
The town manager oversees day-to-day tasks, such as the budget, grant writing and town projects, and advises the Board of Trustees.
With the town in a state of emergency because of the coronavirus outbreak, Salka emphasized finding a leader who can “keep the town running during these hard times.”
Several candidates submitted appealing applications, and in different circumstances, the town might have brought candidates to the area for interviews.
Not only did Sickles meet the job requirements, but she stood out because of her work background and experience in the town.
“She has been doing a very great job with the town of Bayfield,” Salka said. “She’s proven that she’s a valued employee and she would be an asset to the town of Bayfield.”
No contract agreement has been made yet, and the town is working through the details of a future offer. If negotiations were to fall apart, the board would return to the list of candidates or reopen the position for more applicants, he said.
“I love working for small towns. It’s just a beautiful community,” Sickles said. “It’s been great to really have a good foundation here.”
If she becomes the permanent town manager, Sickles said her focus would be on economic recovery and “getting back to business.”
She is creating a recovery package for the board to consider, including ideas like payment plans for water and sewer investment fees and utilities. The package also considers providing assistance to businesses in need of short-term funding or other resources.
“I don’t think I’m alone in this. ... I think every manager is looking at recovery for our communities,” Sickles said. “That’s going to be the most important thing we do – to work together.”
smullane@durangoherald.com
