Danville council: What do you want in a city manager?

By Bernard Baker

Published: July 2, 2008

Danville City Council is asking for public input in its search for a new city manager.

Mayor Sherman Saunders said he would like to hear specifically what skills and experience the new city manager should have. Saunders said he believes this is the first time council has asked for public involvement.

“While the city manager worked for City Council, his or her duty is to serve the citizens of our city,” Saunders said. “Accordingly, council feels that it is important to get citizens input.”

Jerry Gwaltney retired as city manager on Monday, after more than eight years at the helm of the local government. Council is in the early stages of finding his replacement.

Councilman Fred Shanks said he wants a city manager with experience and success in economic development, who will continue diversifying the local economy.

Shanks said some residents have asked him to consider someone with local ties, but he said that’s a limited pool.

Shanks said the city needs someone who has a strong utilities background and can manage 1,200 city employees.

“This city manager is not your run-of-the-mill city manager,” Shanks said.

Councilman Adam Tomer said residents should have input on the qualities and characteristics of the next city manager. 

“What are they looking for? What accomplishments would you like to see in the future? Feedback will help guide council in the right direction,” Tomer said.

Saunders said the next city manager needs to possess skills to keep Danville moving in its current direction. One of those skills would be continuing the city’s economic development efforts and working closely with Pittsylvania County, he said.

Council is compiling a list of search firms that will recommend candidates for the city manager position.

Responses can be sent to City Clerk Annette Y. Crane, 427 Patton St., Room 428, Danville, VA 24541.

E-mail responses may be sent to . Please respond by July 25.

Call the city clerk at (434) 799-5185 for more information.

• Contact Bernard Baker at or (434) 791-7986.