Minot City Council Transitions Leadership as Harold Resigns City Manager Role

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Minot City Hall, the council convened on August 4, 2025, to address pivotal changes in city leadership. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of gratitude and anticipation as council members discussed the transition of Harold, the outgoing city manager, and the appointment of Tom Joyce as the acting city manager.

In a heartfelt address, a council member emphasized the importance of a smooth transition, acknowledging Harold's five years of dedicated service to the city. The council member expressed appreciation for Harold's leadership, noting that while there were differences in perspectives, their collaboration remained respectful and productive. This sentiment resonated throughout the meeting, highlighting the council's commitment to honoring past contributions while looking forward to new opportunities.

The council's decision to appoint Joyce as the interim city manager was framed as a strategic move to ensure continuity in leadership. The transition is set to take effect the following morning, allowing Joyce to step into his new role seamlessly. This change not only marks a new chapter for the city but also sets a clear timeline for Harold's departure, with his official end date scheduled for August 23. This arrangement is expected to save the city approximately $10,000 in costs associated with the transition.

As discussions progressed, the council turned its attention to the recruitment process for a permanent city manager. The consensus leaned towards exploring internal candidates first, with the possibility of utilizing external resources if necessary. The city’s assistant manager, who will temporarily assume the city manager role, was highlighted as a strong candidate, reflecting the council's confidence in its existing leadership team.

The council agreed to revisit the recruitment progress at their September 2 meeting, ensuring that the process remains transparent and efficient. This proactive approach underscores the council's dedication to finding the best fit for the city’s future while maintaining stability during the transition.

As the meeting concluded, the council's commitment to Minot's growth and development was palpable. With a blend of respect for the past and a clear vision for the future, the city stands poised for a new chapter, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.