Chowchilla seeks public input before filling 2 top posts
The city of Chowchilla put out a call this week to residents, asking for their input and ideas on what they would like to see in the next city administrator and police chief.
Both positions are currently held by interim leaders. City Council and city staff expect to begin interviews in the coming weeks.
The city has improved its standing from several years ago when it was on the brink of bankruptcy. Of late, City Council has focused on the community’s infrastructure needs for water, sewage and roadways.
Leaders have also made an effort to collaborate with other agencies. For example, the city has begun to work more with the Madera County Economic Development Commission.
So the council has asked for the opinions of residents on what qualities and values they expect in the city’s next top administrator and top cop.
The next city administrator will likely be a new face. Carolyn Lehr, the interim city administrator, has said she has no intention of seeking the full-time position.
She could serve through April 30, according to her contract. She’s being paid $12,207 per month plus additional benefits for retirement, temporary housing and a cellphone bill.
She took over from former City Administrator Mark Lewis, who agreed to resign from the position in September. The city paid him a nine-month, $122,525 severance package, according to the City Attorney’s Office.
Unlike the city administrator, Lt. David Riviere, who is serving as interim chief, has said he intends to seek the full-time position. As lieutenant, he makes $86,213, according to transparency website www.PublicPay.ca.gov.
Former Chief of Police Jay Varney is now Madera County sheriff.
Anyone from the public can submit comments and ideas to the city clerk by email to cityclerk@ci.chowchilla.ca.us, by fax to (559) 665-7418 or in person at Chowchilla City Hall, 130 S. Second St.
Sun-Star staff writer Thaddeus Miller can be reached at (209) 385-2453 or tmiller@mercedsunstar.com.
This story was originally published March 6, 2015 at 3:16 PM with the headline "Chowchilla seeks public input before filling 2 top posts."