Summit County Council finalizes county manager selection process with new candidate

The Summit County Council has made significant strides in the search for a new county manager, culminating in the recent swearing-in of Candace Hart. This decision comes after a thorough recruitment process that involved community engagement and careful consideration of candidates.

The council began the search by hiring a highly recommended recruiter with extensive experience in county management. This process mirrored the successful recruitment of former county manager Tom Fisher, who served for over six years. The recruiter posted the job and evaluated numerous applicants, ultimately narrowing the field down to four candidates, which was one more than initially expected.

Community involvement was a key aspect of the selection process. A search committee, composed of elected officials and community members, played a vital role in interviewing candidates. After a series of social engagements and interviews, the council faced a delay in making a final decision due to state law, which required the seating of new council members before a selection could be finalized. This delay was resolved with the swearing-in of Candace Hart, allowing the council to proceed with their deliberations.

The council conducted additional interviews to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the candidates, seeking a more informal discussion to gauge their fit for the role. Following these discussions, the council undertook background checks and began negotiations with the preferred candidate. The culmination of this process led to a special meeting where the council voted to confirm Hart as the new county manager.

This appointment is expected to bring fresh leadership to Summit County, addressing ongoing challenges and enhancing community engagement. The council's commitment to a thorough and inclusive selection process reflects their dedication to finding a candidate who can effectively serve the needs of the residents. As the community looks forward to Hart's leadership, the council remains focused on supporting her transition into this critical role.