New Topeka City Manager on the horizon

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Topekans are being invited to meet the city's new manager next month.

The City of Topeka announced in a press release that people can meet the five finalists for the position of city manager from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, April 8 at 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard. Interim City Manager Richard Nienstedt has held the role since the controversial exit of former City Manager Stephen Wade.

City spokeswoman Rosie Nichols says the search for the new Top City manager has lasted several months. More than 40 candidates applied for the spot with the list now consisting of five people, none of which come from the city's current staff.

These finalists will participate in two interview panels on April 8. One interview will be with the City's Governing Body while the other will be with a panel of community stakeholders selected by City Mayor Mike Padilla. These interviews will not be open to the public.

Those who attend the public meet and greet after the interviews can provide feedback on the candidates through comment cards. More background information on the candidates will be unveiled next week.

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