Council approves new economic-development position to pursue sports-complex opportunities after salary debate

The Gallatin City Council approved a personnel change to add a position in the Gallatin Economic Development Agency aimed at attracting a sports-complex or similar private sports development, but the decision followed a contentious discussion over salary, hiring structure and whether the work should be contracted.

Staff and Council discussed the expected timeline and scope. A staff member described the work as likely taking a minimum of two years to show significant results and characterized the role as business-development focused rather than a tournament-manager position. Councilman Fan and others said the proposed starting salary might be too low to attract experienced candidates; one council member recommended a higher top range. HR and department staff said the position could be hired within an existing pay-grade structure and that any pay beyond the top of that grade would require mayoral approval.

Council debated using a contract/consultant versus a permanent position. Some council members favored hiring a consultant to test outcomes before creating an ongoing salary-funded position; others argued that delays could cause the city to miss recruitment opportunities. The council voted on an amendment to move the position to a higher pay grade; that amendment failed 4–3. The main resolution to add the headcount and create the position was approved by roll call 6–1.

What happens next: The position is added to the classification plan; departments will work through recruitment and compensation consistent with the adopted pay grade and with any mayoral approval needed for hires above the grade.