New City Manager Selection Process; Public Workshops Set

After 35 years of service to New Smyrna Beach, City Manager Khalid Resheidat is set to retire by the end of August later this year.

Now, following a nationwide search conducted by Strategic Government Resources, Inc., city commissioners will soon begin the process of choosing his successor. 

Mayor Fred Cleveland remarked on the weight the decision carries during his February 26 State of the City Address, saying, “With all the work that remains ahead of us, hiring our next city manager is by far the most critical.”

Similar to the role a CEO plays in a corporation, a city manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations across all city departments, providing professional advice to elected officials, and executing the city’s annual budget, in addition to a host of other senior executive responsibilities.

All are invited to attend the following series of public workshops to be held in the James W. Hathaway Commission Chambers located at 214 Sams Ave.

• 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18: Initial presentation of candidates; commissioners will select 8-12 semifinalists
• 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 16: Commissioners will set a shortlist of 3-5 finalists
• 5:30 p.m. Friday, June 7: Open house for members of the public to meet & greet the finalists
• 9 a.m. Saturday, June 8: Each finalist will present their vision to commissioners and take questions