Bavarian Village, Leavenworth, In Search of City Administrator

Leavenworth's long time city administrator, Joel Walinksi, will soon be exiting the position as of February 29. Walinski served the city of Leavenworth for ten years as city administrator.

"It's been a lot of working with a lot of very good people that have a very wonderful community," said Walinski. "I've enjoyed a good run. Part of its the economy, part of its the commercial districts, part of its the community in general."

Walinski served the city of Leavenworth for ten years as city administrator. In his time, road improvement is one noted accomplishment with the city starting with a low 47 rating from Transportation Improvement Board and now the city clocks in over 60-65 rating. During Walinski's time the city has conducted a variety of projects such as park enhancements and been financially strengthened that's exemplified with the city's A credit rating and reserve funds.

"Leavenworth is a very special community, got lots of different people in terms of bringing lots of different ideas to the table and problem solving. You don't get that in a number of small towns," said Walinski.

New mayor Carl Florea has launched the search via Prothman, recruiting company, for the next administrator to serve the Bavarian Village.

"They're in the process of advertising and collecting resumes," said Mayor Florea. "That process will close March 8th and then from there, they'll do the first step of weaning things down to eight to ten to 12 that are the top."

From there, the interview process will be toward the end of March. The goal is to have the new administrator transitioned and ready to jump in to city business by May.