San Angelo's city leaders "pressed pause" on their search for a new Economic Development Director. Over a year ago former Director Guy Andrews resigned. At the time Assistant City Manager Michael Dane expressed optimism that a replacement could be found quickly. Two rounds of headhunter led searches produced no viable candidates.
Economic Development is a top three priority for City Council. The Development Corporation pays the city huge dollars annually for support services, which includes the Economic Development Director.
That contract was an issue for Guy Andrews and former board member John Bariou. Both questioned the fairness of the arrangement and its impact on the independence of the Development Corporation. City staff staunchly defended what they bring to the table, so it's disappointing for staff not to deliver on hiring a quality candidate. Dane even said the position might not need a full time person. How many faces do these guys have?
Money was mentioned as a stumbling block but sometimes it's "you can't pay me enough to do that job." Any candidate could watch City Council and Development Corporation meetings and see a lack of alignment.
The Development Corporation held two budget workshops that likely addressed the various splits. Those have not been shared with the public outside written minutes. At least one workshop meeting had an audio recording.
Pressing pause in an audio recordings mean less visibility for the public, which includes possible future Economic Development Director candidates. Much is said in the space between words.
City Council and their appointed COSADC board need to work through a number of issues. Until then hiring a new Economic Development Director will be challenging.
Update: The July 26th Workshop minutes state:
The board would like to align strategic priorities with City Council.
The public should be able to hear this discussion.
The Development Corporation approved a lease extension with Centurion Planning and Design as the firm's new space is not yet ready. This is interesting as Guy Andrews works for Centurion.
Update 9-26-23: The meeting minutes state "Per Michael Dane, the hiring of the Economic Development Director position is on pause."
Update 4-27-24: The COSADC board received an update on the city's not filling the Economic Development Director slot. The report came from interim Economic Development Director and Assistant City Manager Michael Dane. Dane said city management has no plans to fill the job at this time. He did recommend a study of how other cities have organized and staffed their economic development function. Board member Joe Spano asked Tina for information on the economic impact of not filling the position. Dane answered for Tina in general terms. He said savings have been used to fund projects.
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