Troutdale council starts recruitment for city manager; Jensen Strategies recommended as consultant

The Troutdale City Council on Feb. 25 adopted a resolution to begin a professional recruitment for city manager after Eric Young told the council he plans to retire in August.

City staff recommended hiring Jensen Strategies to conduct the recruitment. City staff said Jensen had previously helped Troutdale identify successful candidates and had positive recent work for nearby jurisdictions. Councilors asked about alternatives and timelines; staff explained that a formal RFP would add several weeks to the schedule and could push a hire into late summer or fall. Staff framed the proposed timeline to allow a transition overlap between Young and a successor if the council follows the proposed schedule.

Under the timetable presented by staff, the council will provide input to the consultant through stakeholder interviews and a work session in April to finalize the candidate profile. The recruitment firm would then screen applicants and present finalists in June; the council plans a full-day interview process and an evening public reception for finalists. City staff noted the selection process requires several formal council actions, including public adoption of selection criteria and an eventual resolution to make a conditional offer and publicly appoint the successor.

Glenn (councilor) moved adoption of the resolution to commence recruitment; Councilor Andrews seconded. The council approved the resolution by roll call with all present voting yes. City Manager Young praised Jensen Strategies and highlighted recent successful placements the firm had made for neighboring jurisdictions.