Public input wanted in search for new city manager | News

By Nicole Bell - bio | email | facebook
Posted by Terry Alexander - email

PETERSBURG, VA (WWBT) – What qualities and experience would you like to see in your next city manager? It's a question Petersburg is asking its residents.

Thursday night, community members will have a chance to give their input as the search for a new city manager gets underway.

Serena Miles has lived and worked in Petersburg for forty years. She's adamant about what characteristics the city's next manager should possess.

"Enthusiastic, zealous and eager to get the job done. I'd like to see more activities for the children and more jobs and opportunities for our residents," said Miles.

Langston Granderson plans on attending the public meeting. He's concerned about crime.

 "I had a nephew 2 months ago gunned down right here in Petersburg," said Granderson.

The current city manager announced he'd be retiring in June.

The city has hired Springsted, at a cost of about $18,000, to help with a recruitment of a new city manager John Anzivino is the company's vice president.

"The public's involvement is very important in this process. This person will be the chief executive for the city of Petersburg -- managing the budget and directing the personnel of the city," said Anzivino.

Anzivino says the meeting is just one of many methods it's using to help find a good fit for the position.

"We have 3 or 4 focus groups that we're meeting with that are comprised of community and business leaders. The citizen's weight in the process is important," said Anzivino.

The public meeting will take place Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. It will be held at Vernon Johns Jr. High School in Petersburg.

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