Corridor Business Journal Article

As much as we would like to minimize the importance of government, the city manager position in Iowa City is indeed quite significant. The next person to serve in this position will have the opportunity to help shape the city’s future.

And there is no doubt that the entire Corridor will be either positively or negatively impacted the person hired.

While some may be frustrated that the initial search didn’t produce a leading candidate, we are not. We would much rather have the city council continue the selection process than feel forced to select someone who is not the ideal candidate. We don’t need to settle for second best.

Spend the money and take the time needed to find the right person. It is important.

City Councilor Amy Correia had it right when she said in a news report, “It was a sense that it was a big decision… we had a city manager for over 20 years. We feel like we don’t need to be in a hurry.”

There appear to be no major issues that have been put on hold while this process is under way. Dale Helling, the interim city manager, seems to be managing things fine during the interim.

Like any hire, it is difficult to know who the right candidate will be. When the right city manager is selected it will move the city in a positive direction. The wrong selection will do the opposite.

Kelly Hayworth was selected at a young age from Creston, where he served as finance officer. He has shown — without question — what a strong city administrator with a leading vision can do for a community. He has transformed the city from a sleepy bedroom community to a major economic force. The Coral Ridge Mall area and the River Landing are just two of the transformational projects led by Mr. Hayworth.

The one point that shouldn’t be overlooked is that the city manager can only be as successful as a city council and mayor will allow. If the city manager doesn’t have the support and political backing of a council, hands could be tied and fundamental changes are not likely to occur.

For example, Brian James, the previous city manager in North Liberty, was put in an extremely challenging position. It is unclear if anyone could have adequately managed the explosive growth that North Liberty has seen over the past five years. He turned out to not be the best fit for this position. But it should be noted that the political squabbles among the city’s elected officials only exacerbated the challenges of moving this city forward.

Iowa City is a very unique city with great opportunities and many challenges. Taking time to ensure that the right city manager is found will help the city meet these challenges and move it forward.

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