The City of Piqua announced today that the search for a permanent city manager is on hold after both finalists, Jason Via and Dan Wendt, withdrew from consideration. The exact dates of their withdrawals were not immediately released.
Interim leadership continues
Rick Byron will remain in his role as interim city manager while the city navigates the transition. Byron has been overseeing daily operations and will continue to provide stability for municipal staff and residents.
Commissioners to resume recruitment
City officials said the recruitment process will be discontinued during the transition period between the outgoing and newly elected city commissioners. “The newly elected City Commissioners will move forward with a recruitment process after they have assumed their elected duties,” the city statement read.
The decision follows the recent special election held on November 3, in which voters recalled three commissioners: 1st Ward Commissioner and Mayor James Vetter, 3rd Ward Commissioner William Walker, and 5th Ward Commissioner and Vice Mayor Frank DeBrosse. Jim Sheats, Damon Wilson, and Kim Heisler were selected to fill the vacant seats.
Background on the manager search
Via and Wendt were identified as the two leading candidates in August after a competitive selection process. Their withdrawal leaves the city without a final candidate, prompting officials to pause and reassess the timeline.
City staff will continue to handle routine functions, including public works, finance, and community services, under Byron’s interim guidance. Residents can expect no interruption in essential services while the city prepares for the next phase of the hiring process.
Next steps
Once the new commissioners are sworn in, the city will restart the search for a permanent manager, likely issuing a new request for proposals and reopening the interview process. The city has not set a specific date for when the renewed search will begin.
Community members who have questions about the transition or the city manager role are encouraged to contact the City Hall office for further information.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
