Council appoints Craig Guidinger as new city manager

“Over the last two years, going through a couple of budget sessions now, we’ve seen a city that’s at a financial point that’s causing some strain and some stress,” he said.

In addition to existing spending, the city is preparing for some large-scale projects, such as upgrading the wastewater system. That project alone is about $40 million for the first phase, although some federal grant money will likely help pay for a good portion of it.

“In my personal opinion, we need a city manager that’s a mover, that’s a shaker and someone that has a very clear and direct plan and direction as to how we’re going to accomplish these things,” Laewetz said.

Council is meeting again for a strategic planning session on Tuesday, which Laewetz said might give him more confidence, but until then, he was not sure Guidinger was the correct choice.

“Up to this time, I have not seen the calibre I wish to see out of a city manager.”

Laewetz was not part of the management committee, which was tasked with reviewing the 44 applications received and interviewing the top candidates.

Coun. Blake Edwards said he was on the committee and Guidinger put forward a plan during the interview process that would result in change, and that he earned his way to getting the job offer when compared to outside candidates.

“This was a very intense process,” Edwards said. “This was long, this was thorough.”

After shortlisting six candidates for interviews, the list was whittled down to three before the final recommendation was made.

“This was not a hiring as status quo. What I saw Craig present — and this was why the recommendation was partly there — is because he presented a plan for some changes,” Edwards said.

“He presented some strong knowledge and some strong ideas on what has gone on and what could go on. I think that’s important. It’s not a status quo move.”

Both Coun. Tony Head and Mayor Bill Powalinsky, members of the committee, said they were confident in the choice the committee put forward.

Speaking after the motion to hire him had passed, Guidinger thanked council for the decision.

“I’ve been working for the city for about 18 years. Being a public servant is a true honour, and continuing down this road in this capacity and leading the city in this capacity is the honour of a lifetime,” he said.

He also spoke to residents, saying that the city is on a good trajectory.

“Prince Albert is a city of opportunity and belonging that we’re proud to call home as established in our official community plan, in our strategic plan. Every decision that we make will certainly stay true to that vision, will stay true to those values.”

His salary will start at $244,000 annually and will be adjusted based on annual performance reviews approved by council. The remuneration is comparable to that received by city managers in North Battleford, Swift Current and Yorkton.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com

by Susan McNeil

Council appoints Craig Guidinger as new city manager

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