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Item No. 20 TO: Mayor, Mayor Pro -Tem, & City Council FROM: Rose Beverly, City Manager Robert G. Vine, Deputy City Manager SUBJECT: Finance Director Appointment of Bruce Ballard, CPA City Charter Section 21 DATE: March 24, 2025 BACKGROUND: With the impending retirement of current and long-time Finance Director, Gene Anderson, the Finance Director position has been advertised for just under a year. With little to no interest, the decision was made to contract with Executive Search Firm, Baker Tilly in the early fall of 2024 to assist with the finding of applicants for this position. This has proven to be a very difficult position to fill. After narrowing the applicant list and interviewing 4 individuals, the decision was made to move forward with Bruce Ballard as the choice to fill this important position. STATUS OF ISSUE: We are pleased to present Bruce Ballard, CPA, as our new selection for Finance Director. Mr. Ballard has over 28 years' experience with the financial operations of the Tyler Independent School District and three and a half years as the County Auditor with Hunt County. He has displayed a depth of knowledge and understanding that matches the job description along with a passion for working in a governmental environment. Throughout the hiring process, he has impressed Staff with his experience, his knowledge and his character and we believe he will be a good addition to our team. Pursuant to the Paris City Charter, Section 21, "Neither the council nor any of its members shall direct the City Manager or any of his subordinates in the appointment or removal of any employee; provided, however, that the appointment of'department heads shall be subject to the approval of` the council. " Therefore, the job offer to Bruce Ballard is contingent upon the approval of the City Council. If his appointment is approved by the City Council, Mr. Ballard plans to start on April 14, 2025.