Interim City Administrator Bill Brock, who’s been serving in this department since 2014, announced to the Board of Mayor and Alderman Tuesday night during their regular meeting he was not going to seek the permanent position of city administrator and will retire effective February 1,2019. Brock, in a letter read to the board, said it was not as easy decision to come to a retirement decision. He was emphatic to the board and media and visitors present that he was not asked or forced to resign or retire. Brock said the decision is solely his.
The 66 year old has been a longtime City of McMinnville employee having served in several capacities for well over 30 years, including being the Public Works Director since 1988.
Brock, was appointed the interim city administrator in 2014, and still continues to serve in that capacity today.
Brock went on to mention 2 accomplishments he was proud to be a part of: the revitalization of Main St. last decade and the renovation of the Park Theater completed in 2015. He went on to thank the many employees and department heads who has worked hard and been very supportive of him.
Mayor Ben Newman told our news department when asked of Brock’s decision to retire admitted it came as a total surprise to the board. He reinterated Brock’s sentiments that he was not asked or forced to resign or retire. Newman continued that he has accepted Brock’s decision to retire Feb. 1 of next year. Brock told our news department he plans to spend his retirement with his family and work around the house.
The city has been looking for a permanent city administrator for over 4 years and Newman said the search will continue.
In other city board news the board passed two resolutions. They accepted the low bid from Roofing Services Co. of 52,595 dollars to replace the roof at the East Main Fire Hall and to accept the low bid from Stubbs Construction Services in the amount of 15,990 dollars for Tennis Court Fencing.
Ryle Chastain was named Vice Mayor and Alderman Steve Harvey was appointed to the McMinnville Electric System board.