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City Officials Considering National Search for Administrator as Rhodes’ Retirement Date Looms

May 3rd, 2021 by WCBC Radio

Not entirely satisfied with the initial round of applicants, Cumberland officials are considering a national search for a new city administrator. Jeff Rhodes, current city administrator, announced in November he would retire with his last day being June 1. With that date fast approaching  the city council will need to accelerate the process- or consider appointing an interim administrator to allow more time to complete a search. The best way to move forward dominated much of the discussion during a recent work session. The position was advertised and a total of 24 applicants were received. Of those two dozen, four finalists emerged, scoring highest on a rubric method that was utilized. The officials debated whether to hire a national search consultant- and whether or not the four finalists already established would be further vetted. Mayor Ray Morriss said, given the importance of the position to be filled,  he would lean toward hiring a consultant…