The Newport City Council held a special meeting on May 8, 2024, to discuss the selection process for a new city manager, a topic that has sparked significant debate among council members. The meeting revealed concerns about the qualifications of the candidates under consideration, particularly regarding their municipal experience.

During the discussions, it was noted that the resumes received for the city manager position were generally disappointing. The job description required extensive experience in various areas, including budgeting, financial planning, and economic development. Despite these requirements, the council faced a choice between two candidates, one of whom, Laura Citroen, was highlighted for her impressive qualifications. Citroen has over 20 years of experience in finance, has managed substantial city funds, and has maintained a high credit rating for the city for nearly two decades. She has also been recognized for her excellence in financial reporting and has played a crucial role in navigating challenges such as a cyber attack on the city.

In contrast, the other candidate, Mr. Kennedy, was criticized for lacking any municipal experience, raising concerns among council members about his ability to lead effectively. Councilor DePaulo expressed disbelief at the prospect of hiring someone with no relevant experience at a salary of $225,000, which would surpass that of any other city manager in the state. DePaulo emphasized the importance of integrity and experience in addressing the city's complex challenges, including its aging infrastructure and the impact of tourism.

The council's deliberations also touched on the city charter, which mandates that the selection of a city manager should be based on executive qualifications and municipal administration knowledge. DePaulo questioned the council's commitment to upholding these standards, suggesting that the charter's integrity could be compromised if the majority chose to overlook it.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the decision on the city manager would have significant implications for Newport's governance and future challenges. Council members expressed a desire to move forward with a leader who could effectively address the city's needs, but the path to that decision remains contentious.