From Great Bend City Council member Davis Jimenez...
"I wanted to share my thoughts regarding the recent event of the resignation of the Great Bend City Administrator and some possible promotion decisions within our city.
In 2023, the city contracted a group to find qualified applicants to be the city administrator. Recently, the current administrator submitted his resignation, with his last day to be in August. There has been discussion on how the position will be filled without opening it for people to apply. I believe this position should be opened to the public.
Hire a group to find the city qualified applicants like we have done in the past. The mayor believes the position should be given to someone without going through the application and interview process. I have nothing against anyone that wants the position, but I believe opening the position to the public is a fair way to make sure we do not miss or overlook any candidates that are qualified and have worked hard for an opportunity like this. If we open this position and find a qualified person, I will support it 100%.
I was also informed that some sort of decision has been made and a contract has been drafted.
I want to continue to see our city be great and one way to do so is to provide an open, fair and motivating culture that benefits everyone. Transparency is something that is always talked about and promised, so why is it that most have no idea this will happen soon?
Due to my requirements with the United States Army, I will not be present at the next city council meeting and wanted to voice my beliefs."
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Great Bend Administrator apologizes for short stint in position
Last week, Great Bend City Administrator Brandon Anderson submitted his resignation, giving the city a 30-day notice. Hired last summer, Anderson’s stay with the city was just over a year. He had a chance to publicly address the Great Bend City Council at Monday's meeting for the first time stating the decision was based on personal reasons.
"On a personal note, I'd like to thank the council, city staff and citizens of Great Bend," said Anderson. "I apologize my stint here was short, but I also have come to believe that life is short. COVID taught me that many things can easily be taken away."
Anderson’s final day with the city will be Aug. 9. Prior to coming to Great Bend, Anderson spent 27 years in Texas, including his last stop as city manager for the City of Levelland, Texas.
"Thanks again for making my short stint here very rewarding," added Anderson.
Assistant City Administrator Logan Burns served as interim administrator from December 2022 to July 2023 prior to Anderson’s official start. The council will discuss Anderson's replacement at the meeting on Aug. 5.