ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – The City of Escanaba is one step closer to hiring its next manager.
In December, current manager Jim McNeil announced his intention to ‘move on’ from his position this spring. In February, the City Council held public interviews with its top two candidates for the job—former administrator for the Village of Waterford, Wisconsin, Zeke Jackson and former administrator of Freedom, Wisconsin, Justin Carlson.
On Thursday, the Council discussed its next steps in the hiring process.
“We’re looking to replace a city manager—a very good city manager we’ve had—to come in and take over,” he said. “I hope that we can make the best decision.”
Council members unanimously voted in favor of extending an offer to Jackson, pending contractual terms and an in-depth background check.
Council member Karen Moore stated that she was “very impressed” with Jackson, having spoken with individuals who have worked with him in the past. She believes he will bring experience relevant to a waterfront community like Escanaba, including on the issue of housing.
“I did talk to some people that have experience working with him, and I encountered no negative issues with him,” Moore said. “He was very forthcoming. He answered the questions not only with a vague answer, but he answered them with facts and experience in every one of the questions. To me, that is an impressive candidate.”
According to McNeil, the City hopes to have its next manager in place before his departure in mid-May.
