PORT ANGELES — The City Council didn’t have to look far to find a new city manager.
Mark Madsen, the city’s economic and community development director since March, was hired Tuesday to replace outgoing Mike Quinn.
The vote was 5-1 with City Councilwoman Lauren Erickson dissenting.
Erickson said the contract’s 60-day severance clause was too long.
Madsen’s contract will pay him $105,000 annually.
City Councilman Grant Munro was absent when the vote was taken.
“Thank you to the City Council for having the trust and confidence in its staff to conduct an internal search. It’s a testament to the city staff,” Madsen said.
“This is a great city and it’s a privilege to be a part of it.”
Nationwide search costly
Mayor Richard Headrick said Madsen is the most recent example of the city’s great staff members.
The council discussed conducting a nationwide search, Headrick said.
But those searches can be lengthy and expensive after paying travel and lodging for several candidates, and you still end up with an unknown quantity, Headrick said.
Quinn said Madsen had proven to be a exceptional department head and leader, and was a great choice to lead Port Angeles.
“It’s indeed a great honor, especially because I know the amount of work involved,” Quinn said.
“It’s a great city and a great management team, and I know he is going to be a great city manager.”
Quinn’s last day will be Oct. 12. He is leaving to become city manager in Mount Dora, Fla.
