The four finalists for Moorhead’s city manager position are Shawn Henessee, Larry Kruse, Aaron Parrish and Christina Volkers. There were 51 applicants in the original group.
Henessee is county administrator in Marinette County, Wisconsin. He was an assistant director in Missouri, holds a juris doctor degree and taught in Kansas.
Kruse was the city administrator in Willmar, Minn., and other Minnesota cities. Among his degrees, he earned a BS in business administration from Minnesota State University Moorhead.
Parrish is city administrator in Forest Lake, Minn., and previously in Crookston, Minn. His master’s degree is from Minnesota State University – Mankato in urban and regional studies.
Volkers is court executive officer, clerk of the court, jury commissioner, San Bernardino, Calif., Superior Court. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul.
Sharon Klumpp of Waters & Company contacted the final five chosen Monday. One candidate withdrew his name.
Klumpp has been the consultant for the process since applications began Aug. 15. On Dec.15-16, applicants will come to Moorhead for tours, meetings and personal interviews.
David Schmidt filled the interim city manager position on a six-month, $75,000 contract that began July 6. Schmidt was clear that he did not want the job permanently. He has an organic farming operation near Wabasha, Minn.
The council expressed pleasure with the experience and qualifications of the applicants, noting diverse backgrounds and accomplishments.
The council also received six applications for the Ward 2 council post. The seat will be filled by Jan. 1 through a council selection process. City Human Resources Director Jill Wenger will develop questions for the finalists. Jim Haney resigned from his council position effective Dec. 31 for the Clay County Commission.
Candidates for the Ward 2 council seat are:
Jacob Broten, 2724 Walnut Circle, Moorhead
Michelle (Shelly) Aasen Carlson, 3836 21st Ave. S., Moorhead
Melissa Renee Fabian, 3656 22nd Ave. S., Moorhead
Benjamin Richard Hammer, 3084 11th Ave. S., Moorhead
Shinwar Mayi, 2123 41st St. S., Moorhead
John Rowell, 1216 15th St. S., Moorhead
William P. Stodden, 422 11th St. S, Moorhead
Timothy John Wollenzien, 1916 41st St. S, Moorhead
In other action, City Engineer Robert Zimmerman told the council about the FASTLANE grant application for railroad grade separation projects at southeast Main Avenue on 20th and 21st Streets and on 11th Street. The council approved a task order with KLJ, a work order with MnDOT and a resolution to support the grant application.
In the consent agenda, the council acted on a resolution to approve tax-exempt health care revenue bonds to Eventide Senior Living LLC. Council member Steve Gehrtz said the Economic Development Authority also supported the action.
The council considered action relating to Evergreen Meadows third addition and an ordinance to rezone Block 7 of Bergquist’s addition from residential low density-2 to institutional.
City Council meetings are broadcast live and on video. Visit the website at www.cityofmoorhead.com.
