Beresford narrows field for city administrator; 17 applications received

City officials said the search for a replacement city administrator is under way and that 17 applications were received when the recruitment closed July 21. Mayor Eli Seeley and council members reviewed the planned selection steps: an objective initial scoring of all applications will reduce the pool, followed by phone or in-person interviews and, for finalists, in-person visits to Beresford so candidates can meet city leaders. Officials said they prefer finalists to be available to participate in the council's Aug. 14 strategic planning session if the timing allows. Council members discussed giving finalists a broad exposure to city staff and community leaders and asked staff to provide virtual options for out-of-area candidates. City officials noted the position requires flexibility and regular availability, citing the outgoing administrator's frequent after-hours communications as an example of current expectations. No finalists were named at the July 21 meeting; staff said they will return with a reduced slate and interview plan.