Dozens seek Grand Terrace city manager job
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Posted: 08/18/2009 04:14:46 PM PDT
Updated: 08/18/2009 04:24:31 PM PDT

GRAND TERRACE - More than three dozen people are vying for the city's top administrative post in the wake of a political scandal that brought down the former acting city manager.

The city received 37 applications for the city manager position, which was held on an interim basis for about a year by Steve Berry. The deadline to file applications was Monday.

Berry took over the job when now-retired City Manager Tom Schwab was hospitalized with a brain injury in June 2008.

Berry was relieved of his duties last month following recent revelations of a window-tinting scandal involving Berry and a county work release inmate in 2003.

Berry, who was then assistant city manager, was suspected of embezzling city funds and filing false records, according to sheriff's reports.

City Council members are trying to put the ordeal behind them as they select a new city manager.

City Attorney John Harper will review the applications to weed out candidates who don't meet the qualifications. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree and at least five years serving as a city manager or assistant city manager, with broad experience in all areas of municipal government.

The council decided last month to consider only candidates who don't work for the city for the job.

The applications of eligible candidates will be submitted to council members, who will rate them individually. The highest-rated candidates will be interviewed by the council.

A decision is expected in October. The winning candidate is likely to start work in early November. Finance Director Bernie Simon is serving as acting city manager in the meantime.

"I think it's more important that we identify and hire the right person than hurry just to get the process finished," Councilman Walt Stanckiewitz said.

Stanckiewitz said he wants to hire an outsider with "fresh ideas" to move the city forward.

Mayor Maryetta Ferre said Grand Terrace needs a city manager "who is very financially savvy and knows how to work with people."