The Centralia City Council Monday night unanimously approved a four year contract with its City Attorney William Korey Smith to be its next city manager.
Mayor Bryan Kuder praised Smith’s background when seeking a motion to approve the agreement.
“He is hometown born and raised in Centralia. He’s got blood in the game. He’s invested in Centralia. He knows the workings of the city and currently holds a Masters Degree in Public Administration along with a law degree. He is currently our city attorney so he is practicing municipal law.”
Smith will be paid $120,000 a year in his new position and will receive any salary adjustments over the term of the contract granted to other employees. Smith will be sworn in as City Manager at the council’s next meeting on April 25th.
In other action, the council agreed to allow the city-owned parking lot at Locust and Second Streets to once again be used on Saturday mornings for a Farmer’s Market. Terry Herrell will remain as Market Master.
The 618 Sports Academy has been given a five year contract to utilize the two ball fields and the concession stand in Fairview Park. The academy was commended for their upgrade of the facilities.
Acting City Manager Kim Enke announced the city has applied for a $2.6-million federal grant they hope will pay for the bulk of the $3.3-million replacement of the Carlyle Lake Water Line. The city is also hoping to get a half-million dollar state grant to assist with the project.
