PORT ANGELES — The Port Angeles City Council on Thursday authorized Human Resources Manager Bob Coons to negotiate a contract with Jerry Osterman for the interim city manager position.
Osterman of Marysville was the former city administrator of Mukilteo and Bothell’s former city manager.
“I felt Mr. Osterman brought a wind of harmony with him and it was refreshing — that spirit is still here,” council member Cherie Kidd said before the 6-0 council vote.
“Not only was his expertise wonderful, but his thoughtfulness as well.”
Council member Dan Di Guilio made the motion to negotiate with Osterman, and Kidd seconded it.
Council member Larry Williams was absent.
Osterman and three other candidates were interviewed for the interim city manager position, which is expected to be for four to six months.
This is current City Manager Mark Madsen’s last week on the job after his resignation July 9.
Osterman had requested $70 per hour, and $1,200 per month in living expenses.
Coons had predicted it could cost as much as $95 per hour for an interim manager.
Osterman said he would be available to start work after Labor Day.
Terms of the contract will be negotiated.
On Thursday evening, Osterman, contacted at his Port Angeles hotel room, hadn’t heard that the council had voted to negotiate with him.
“I can’t really comment at this time,” he said.
