Council picks Bob Murray & Associates to run city manager search after shortlist presentations
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Summary
After reviewing seven shortlisted executive‑recruiting firms and hearing brief presentations, the council authorized the mayor to sign a professional services agreement with Bob Murray & Associates to conduct the national search for the next city manager.
The council voted Jan. 27 to authorize the mayor to execute a professional services agreement with Bob Murray & Associates to perform the city manager recruitment.
Staff reported that an RFP issued Dec. 23, 2025 drew 15 proposals; 7 firms were shortlisted and one later withdrew for capacity reasons. Council heard brief remarks and answered questions from representatives of Prothman, Bob Murray & Associates, Ralph Anderson, CPS HR and several other firms about recent placements, California experience and tourism‑community recruiting.
Several council members asked each firm to identify the lead recruiter assigned to the search, recent city‑manager placements in tourism communities and whether the firm would guarantee placement for one year or provide a no‑cost redo if the hire left within the guarantee period. Bob Murray & Associates said it had recent placements in Monterey, Pacifica and other tourism communities and offers a one‑year guarantee.
Councilmember Morgan moved to authorize the mayor to execute an agreement with Bob Murray & Associates; the motion was seconded and carried. Councilmembers said they chose the firm based on recent California placements, tourism experience and the firm’s outreach/networking capabilities.
