Council appoints new city manager
Following an executive session of November's city council meeting, Interim City Manager Kevin Self has officially accepted the position of Newcastle City Manager.
Several applicants submitted their resumes for the open position left vacated by Nick Nazar last April.
While on medical leave Nazar’s contract was terminated by the city. Self was then appointed as Interim City Manager while the council sought a replacement.
Three candidates were selected to interview with the council. Self was unanimously selected with a 5-0 vote.
Effective Wednesday, November 14, Self officially acquired the title of the position he has diligently worked the past eight months.
“ Kevin has distinguished himself while assistant city manager during the city manager’s absence in 2017 and while serving as Interim City Manager during the past eight months,” Newcastle Mayor Gene Reid said.
Self has been employed by the city for 15 years. His first post was as fire chief for the Newcastle Fire Department on Dec. 1, 2003. Exactly seven years later, Self was promoted to assistant city manager.
Before his tenure at Newcastle, he was a firefighter for 27 years.
Self completed coursework for a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) Degree last week, and officially graduates next month.
“This demonstrates his commitment to continued personal development,” Reid said.
At this time the city does not have any plans to fill the open assistant city manager position.
“We were very fortunate to have someone such as Kevin who was in a position to take the leadership role when circumstances required, Reid said.
The Council along with the new city manager will explore the needs of the open position over the next few months.
“I look forward to working with the council and our various committees and citizens to ensure the continuance of a bright future for Newcastle,” Self said.
“This is a great time for Newcastle! I want to extend my personal congratulations to Kevin and my thanks both for his many contributions already made and for the leadership he brings to ensure that the future will continue to make Newcastle a great place to live with room to grow,” Reid said.