Seventeen Candidates Vie for Century’s Town Administrator Role!

Kenneth City, USA - The search for Century’s next town administrator is officially underway, with seventeen candidates stepping up to the plate for the coveted position. This role is vital, as the town administrator functions as the chief operations officer, reporting directly to the elected mayor and collaborating closely with the town council. As such, the qualities of the newly appointed administrator will significantly shape the future of this charming community.

Among the hopefuls are five candidates with local ties, each bringing a unique flavor to the table. Alan Fowler, a waste and wastewater consultant, for instance, has deep connections with the town. Dave Murzin, a former state representative from Pensacola, has ventured into economic development with his consulting firm. Jeff Peacock, a Century native, recently made headlines with a congressional bid. Meanwhile, Lisa Rouse and Brian Underwood represent the Pensacola and Fairhope areas, respectively, each lending their expertise in operations, marketing, and grants management to the mix.

Wide-Ranging Experience

The applicant pool is impressively diverse, with candidates showcasing a wealth of experience in municipal management, public safety, economic development, and nonprofit administration. This breadth of expertise aligns well with the primary responsibilities of a town administrator, which include oversight of daily operations, compliance with policies, and budget preparations, as detailed by Job Description.

A successful town administrator is expected to juggle various tasks—everything from managing town employees to executing contracts, as well as engaging with residents and addressing public concerns. It’s a demanding role that requires not only a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration but also exceptional communication and organizational skills. As a result, candidates often come from backgrounds steeped in public service—an aspect emphasized by ICMA highlighting the essence of local government management.

Competitive Salary and Selection Process

The salary for this role ranges from $112,000 to $137,000, with a likely offering at around $124,500. This compensation reflects not just the position’s responsibilities but also the demand for effective leadership in local government. According to North Escambia, the selection committee, led by Mayor Ben Boutwell alongside council members John Bass and Henry Cunningham, will conduct a workshop on Tuesday, July 22, at 10 a.m. to discuss the candidates and make recommendations.

It’s worth noting that interim town manager Howard Brown has chosen not to apply for the role, paving the way for fresh leadership. The final recommendation will hinge on the mayor’s decision, in accordance with the town charter, ensuring that the selected candidate aligns with the community’s values and aspirations.

The Road Ahead