COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) -
The City of Columbia is advertising for a new city manager, but the man currently holding that title plans to spend at least one more year in the position.
Steve Gantt has served as interim city manager since February of 2009 and he says he will do so for several more months.
"My plans are to be with the City for at least one additional year," said Gantt in a statement to WIS.
"Council would like to have my replacement spend at least six months with me prior to my retirement," Gantt said. "The process will take at least six months, so my departure is not anytime soon."
Gantt has been employed by the city since 2001. He has served in several positions, including Special Projects Administrator, Assistant City Manager for Development, and Senior Assistant City Manager for Operations.
During his time with the city, Gantt has overseen the construction of the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center as well as streetscaping on Main Street, Lady Street, Five Points, Two Notch Road and North Main Street. He was also instrumental in the construction of the EdVenture Children's Museum as well as several new parking facilities located in the Vista.
In May, council members voted down a measure that would have transferred power from Gantt to Mayor Steve Benjamin. The "strong mayor" proposal was defeated by a vote of 4-3. It would have given the mayor authority over city operations, including the power to hire and fire employees and create the annual budget plan.
To be eligible for consideration, an applicant must have at least a bachelor's degree and a minimum of 10 years experience as a city or county manager. The position closes August 3 at 5 p.m.
Click here to see the full job description
Copyright 2012 WIS. All rights reserved.
Steve Gantt (Source: City of Columbia)
