Logos via respective firms; Graphic by The Amarillo Pioneer
Following presentations last week from Baker-Tilly, Clear Career Professionals, and Strategic Government Resources, Baker Tilly appears to have the most support as the council looks for a firm to aid in the search for a new city manager.
On the City Council Forum website, Councilman Les Simpson touted the track records of Baker Tilley and SGR. “Because of the importance of this search, we feel we need a company with more of a track record than Clear Career Professionals.” However, Simpson also noted that the city has had issues with SGR in the past. SGR didn't present a background report on [former interim city manager] Childers until four months after he was hired.” He also noted that SGR was involved in the search process that led to Jared Miller being hired as city manager in 2017.
Other members of the council also noted their opinions on the forum. “I feel like the best bang for our buck would be the firm of Baker Tilly,” said Councilman Tom Scherlen. This was echoed by Mayor Cole Stanley, who said the he believes “that Baker Tilly is the best fit for our council.” Councilman Josh Craft similarly noted that his “opinion of a firm to use from their presentation was Baker Tilly.” At time of writing, Don Tipps is the only member to not express his opinion on the board.
Though Scherlen and Craft noted their support for Baker Tilly, both also noted that they felt it would be best for the next city manager to be hired from within the existing city staff. “I really think we owe it to all of our employees to start a search here at home,” said Scherlen. “I think we might be doing an injustice to our current staff by going outside to begin with.” Craft stated he has a similar position, writing that he thinks “our next City Manager is actually already on staff.” Simpson, however, expressed his support for doing a wider search, asking “how do we know with certainty we have the best person for the job without doing a search to compare to the best candidates?”
The cost to hire Baker Tilley, according to a proposal provided by the firm, is $36,382, with several other additional services available for additional costs. This was the highest base price provided the three firms.
The council is expected to vote to hire a firm during their upcoming meeting on January 23rd, though an agenda has not yet been published.