The City of SeaTac announced this week that it is in the final stages of selecting a new City Manager, and is seeking community input throughout the process.

After an extensive search conducted by the city’s Human Resources Department and a recruitment firm, SeaTac officials expect to announce the finalists in late October.

The search firm, tasked with finding highly qualified candidates, developed a profile based on input from City Council members and staff to reflect the city’s priorities. A total of 28 candidates applied for the position, and their applications were reviewed on Sept. 22, 2024. The most promising candidates will proceed to interviews conducted by the search firm.

On Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, the firm will present the results of the initial screening to the City Council, recommending candidates for further consideration as finalists.

“To protect the privacy of all applicants, applications will remain confidential until finalists are selected,” the city said in a statement.

The City expects to announce finalists in late October.

Residents will have the opportunity to engage with the finalists during a public reception (date/place to be announced), where community members can meet the candidates and provide feedback to the City Council. Details regarding the date and location of the reception will be shared soon.

In early November, the City Council plans to interview the finalists in an executive session. A final decision on the top city manager candidate is expected by the end of November, followed by contract negotiations.