Search for Wentzville Administrator Expected to Take Months

The is bringing in an old hand to help out while it is without a full-time city administrator.

Andy McCown, former Wentzville city administrator, will fill in as an assistant of sorts to interim administrator Dennis Walsh. Walsh is filling in as city administrator as well as continuing in his regular position as the city's finance director.

Walsh assumed the role of interim administrator on Aug. 29 after Dianna Wright left the position.

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Mayor Paul Lambi suggested the hiring of a temporary aid at the last city meeting. Lambi said he spoke with the International Organization of City/County Managers, which recommended using a retired city manager.

"They have people that do this," Lambi said. "These are former city managers that go out and fill in on a temporary basis."

Lambi made the suggestion to hire temporary help out of a concern for overburdening city staff, he said. Lambi worried that with all the projects the city is working on and the 2012 budget process, there be a need for more help at the top.

Alderwoman Cheryl Kross objected to the hiring of temporary help, saying the city had adequate staff to handle the city's business.

"We've hired a well-accomplished staff that keeps the best interests of our citizens in the forefront," she said. "They can step up to the plate and bring this one home."

McCown will work part-time for an hourly rate while the city begins its search for a new administrator.

The board approved the move 5-1, with Kross being the lone vote against the plan.