Motion to hire executive director search firm fails after board lacks required votes

Directors reviewed a proposal from Clear Career Professionals to perform a reduced executive-search package for roughly $7,000. The firm proposed screening the existing pool of resumes, preparing a leadership profile, narrowing candidates to eight then to four semifinalists, and producing comprehensive background/reference checks for semifinalists.

At the meeting the president recommended using the vendor to ensure HR compliance and to avoid rework; proponents said the firm had relevant municipal and EDC experience and had been recommended by another city. The motion to retain Clear Career Professionals was moved and seconded. Board members discussed whether to renegotiate further, and a few directors questioned the scope and justification for paying an external firm when internal resumes already existed.

When the vote was called the presiding officer reported the motion did not pass because the board lacked the necessary number of affirmative votes at that meeting. Directors resolved to revisit the decision at a future meeting and to place any required expenditure above the council approval threshold before city council if the board decides to proceed.