City hires interim finance director to help set 2016-2017 budget

Avoca city manager Clint Fichter has been hired as an interim financial manager for the city of Glenwood.

Fichter, who also owns a financial consulting service and law firm, will oversee the city’s finances and budget process while a search is conducted to replace Brian Kissel, who was terminated last month as city administrator and financial director.

Kissel’s termination came just as the city was preparing its budget for the 2016-2017 fiscal year, which begins July 1.

In late February, the Iowa Department of Management approved a request from the city for an extension in getting its 2016-17 budget certified. Under state law, municipalities normally have until March 15 to certify a budget with the county auditor. Glenwood was given a one month extension - until April 15.

Glenwood Mayor Brian Tackett said getting the budget finalized is a top priority, but the search for Kissel’s full-time replacement will go on while the budget is put together.

Mark Miller, a senior advisor with the Iowa City / County Management Association, has  recommended the city conduct a regional search to fill the administrative position