Council hires search firm for city manager search; council recognizes outgoing manager Brian Carter

The St. Joseph City Council on Sept. 3 approved a professional services agreement with Strategic Government Resources in an amount not to exceed $28,900 to conduct an executive search for a new city manager. The resolution, sponsored by Mayor John Josendale, was read by the clerk and approved by roll-call vote; the clerk recorded nine ayes and the motion carried.

Council also recognized outgoing City Manager Brian Carter at the start of the meeting. Mayor Josendale presented Carter with a key to the city dated Sept. 3, 2024 and several council members offered remarks thanking him for his service. Carter responded: "I appreciate the opportunity to do it. I appreciate the support that I've gotten at every turn to do it," and thanked city staff and the community.

Public comment later included a resident who objected to the expenditure for the search firm and offered to perform the work for free.

Why it matters: The council—9s contract starts the formal recruitment process for a permanent city manager and authorizes use of unrestricted funds to hire an outside executive-search firm. The council—9s recognition of Carter marked the transition moment for city leadership.

Next steps: Search firm engagement and candidate recruitment; council and staff will receive search timelines and recommendations from the consultant.