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The search for a permanent North Branch City administrator has been somewhat derailed for a few months,  but got back-on-track last week, with city council directing staff to bring forward search firm proposals.  Council wants to see several  pitches and find a search firm they feel comfortable with.

The former city administrator’s last payday was the end of December 2023.  Jason Ziemer, the community development director, was named interim city administrator.  Mayor Kevin Schieber said even if a hire is identified quickly it’s still generally four to six months to on-board the selection.

In the meeting April 10 there was some trepidation expressed on the part of council as to what exactly the city needs.  

Should the position more closely resemble a city manager than an administrator, for example.  Council member Peter Schaps suggested council needs to clarify the job description and specify the extent of authority a new city hall boss would have.  

Mayor Kevin Schieber said he’s been in contact with the League of MN Cities, which North Branch is a member of, and has been getting some tips, but noted it’s been four months of “not pro-actively looking” for a full-time administrator and he’d like to see some movement.  Council members Robert Canada and Travis Miles also stated they support getting moving on a search consultant.

Ziemer will reach out to the firms he’s aware of and get resumes, qualifications, list of services and the firm’s process and report back soon.  There was no specific date set for the next step.

Fire Chief Pat Heinen asked council to shift the equipment replacement plan a bit to allow for acquisition of a vehicle for the assistant chief.  

It’s a gently-used DNR truck for $13,500, plus a few thousand to add fire department decals and equip.  The rig will easily slide into the role of a grassfire truck in a couple years when a new truck purchase is scheduled.

Council supported amending the plan in the name of efficiency and public safety.   Having two personnel prepared (chief and assistant chief) to arrive as incident command at a scene and assess set-up and severity and carry essential items will greatly improve response.

Randall Fisk submitted his retirement notice which was accepted and job posting was authorized.

Public Works Director Shawn Williams explained Fisk was with North Branch for 16 years and there are a couple of possible in-house applicants for lead water operator.  There could be a domino effect if an existing staffer is promoted to lead water operator.  Council heard the goal is to end up with the same three in the division, but the actual job that will need filling depends on how the hiring proceeds.

In open microphone Bob Streater announced a Monday evening discussion forum is gathering at Tailgaters. The idea is to meet at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday and informally collect concerns or suggestions about city issues and learn what people want to see happen.  Streater said the city has a habit of hiring professional consultants who “tell us what to do.”

Their website at NorthBranchFirst.org already has a list of 15 topics in need of “prioritizing.”

In a special earlier session the council voted 3-1 (Schaps opposed) to recommend Council member Kelly Neider step down in light of three plausible complaints, filed against her as Code of Conduct violations. (Press story April 11 and on-line April 5) 

Neider was absent from that special meeting but attended this regular session. 

Council called a special work session meeting for this week (April 16) at city hall to discuss goals, etc.

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