The Willmar City Council meeting on November 4, 2024, was dominated by discussions surrounding the recruitment process for a new police chief, with a significant focus on whether to engage the services of the Baker Tilly consulting firm. The police commission recommended Baker Tilly, citing their past successful collaborations with the city and their expertise in conducting thorough candidate assessments.

Council members expressed mixed opinions on the necessity of an external search firm. Some argued for keeping the recruitment process internal, emphasizing the value of local candidates who are already familiar with the community and its needs. Council member Carl Fagerly raised concerns about previous hiring experiences where external candidates withdrew after being offered positions, suggesting that local candidates might be less likely to use the city as leverage for other job opportunities.

Conversely, other council members, including Audrey and Julie, highlighted the importance of a structured and transparent recruitment process. They argued that Baker Tilly could provide valuable resources, including assessments and outreach, to ensure the best candidate is selected. Audrey noted that the potential cost difference between using Baker Tilly and an internal process might not be as significant as perceived, given the extensive work involved in recruiting.

Ultimately, a motion to proceed with Baker Tilly's services was put to a vote but failed, with three council members in favor and five against. This outcome leaves the council to regroup and determine the next steps for the recruitment process, which may involve a more internally focused approach while still ensuring a fair and comprehensive evaluation of candidates.

The council's decision reflects ongoing challenges in hiring for key positions within the city, particularly in a competitive job market. As discussions continue, the council aims to balance the need for effective leadership in the police department with the desire to support local talent.