City manager search down to 5

Residents will have a chance to meet the five finalists vying to become Elgin’s permanent city manager next week.

Each candidate will be available to speak with residents during a public meet-and-greet Tuesday, July 29, following brief opening remarks from Mayor Theresa McShan. The meeting is set to begin at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 404 N. Main St.

“These five individuals each have a wealth of experience and expertise to share with us, and we are pleased that they are all interested in sharing their knowledge and experience with our community,” McShan said. “I know I speak for my fellow council members when I say we are all looking forward to getting to know the candidates better and hearing their impressions of Elgin.”

Formal interviews with the finalists will follow in executive session Wednesday, July 30. The candidates’ names and biographies are expected to be posted next week.

Interim City Manager Isaac Turner, who stepped into the role in January, will continue serving until a final selection is made, according to officials. McShan thanked him for his leadership during the transition and praised executive search firm SGR for helping recruit strong candidates.

“We won’t waste time and will make sure that we get the best that we possibly can get,” she said when the city launched its nationwide search in March. “Be rest assured, we are considering all input and actions to make for sure we get the right city manager.”

According to McShan, the city received 86 applications for the position.

Seating for the Tuesday gathering will be limited to the room’s perimeter.