Inver Grove Heights picks DDA Human Resources for city administrator search; Amy Hov named acting city administrator

The Inver Grove Heights City Council discussed three proposals for a city administrator search and indicated consensus to select DDA Human Resources as the preferred firm. Consultant Dave Unmacht summarized proposals from three firms (GMP/Prothman, DDA Human Resources, and MGT Impact Solutions), comparing fees, timelines, candidate pools and optional services such as personality assessments and mentoring.

Unmacht highlighted DDA’s Minnesota experience and its inclusion of a personality index and mentoring program in its proposal. Council members expressed support for DDA’s local experience and leadership development features; others noted potential advantages for a broader or national search depending on council direction. After discussion, council members signaled support and staff noted direction to move forward with DDA.

Because of an upcoming gap in the city administrator role, the council also considered appointing an acting city administrator until an interim or permanent replacement starts. The council moved to appoint Director Amy Hov to serve as acting city administrator in the short interval; the motion included an intent to rotate department heads for career development if the period extends. The motion to appoint Amy Hov carried on roll call.

Staff and the consultant said the selected firm will work on a regional recruiting approach unless the council directs a national search; the firm will outline candidate recruitment, timeline (roughly 12–16 weeks typical), fees and guarantee terms in the final contract.