Nash stays on as interim city manager

Polson city commissioners unanimously agreed that Polson Police Chief Wade Nash should continue as interim city manager.

During a Nov. 7 commissioner’s meeting, Nash addressed the commission, asking that the commissioners back him for the short-term position.

“As long as I have your guys’ support,” Nash said he would be comfortable continuing interim duties.

Ward 1 Commissioner Lou Marchello was absent.

NASH STEPPED up to the plate as interim city manager following the decision of Mark Shrives, the former city manager, to not renew his contract.

During a special meeting on Oct. 22, commissioners voted against a proposed two-year renewal contract for Shrives, immediately presenting him with a one-year contract.

Shrives said that that was “not what was negotiated” in the weeks leading up to the meeting.

Shrives’ contract with the city expired Oct. 29.

Along with Shrives’ decision to not renew his contract, Polson City Attorney NAME and City Engineer Shari Johnson resigned.

Nash explained he was acting city manager when Shrives would be out of town, and is familliar with operations and projects throughout the city.

Addressing the commission was Polson City Fire Department Chief and Strees Administrator Clint Cottle urged commissioners to put a manager in position.

“Time is of the essence,” he said, adding that while day-to-day operations haven’t been entirely interrupted by Shrives’ exit, some responsibilities are “stalled.”

Cottle also said that should a personnel issue arise, the city manager would need to oversee it.

Nash said he is confident that his staff at the police department can continue their duties, as well as other city employees.

Commissioners and community members alike expressed they think Nash is a good fit, as he is well-known and “respected.”

SHRIVES BEGAN his role of city manager with Polson in October of 2013.

In 2006, Polson residents adopted the current charter form of government.

During the Nov. 7 meeting, Finance Officer Cindy Dooley explained to the commission and community members that every 10 years, cities have the chance to decide on whether to keep the charter form of government.

Citizens are able to petition to have the form of government changed in between those 10 years.

Polson has eight years until the next evaluation is done from the state. Dooley said two years ago, the opportunity was presented and it was voted that the charter government should stay in place.

Polson City Commis-sion meetings are held on the first and third Monday of each month at city hall, 106 First St. E.