Salvati announces plans to retire

No date set, but

retirement likely in first half of 2001

By CHRIS VETTER

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- City Manager Dick Salvati announced Tuesday that he plans to retire early next year. Salvati, who has held his position for 32 years, says he will stay until his job can be filled, which will likely be in the first half of 2001.

"I've given this some thought," Salvati told the City Council. "After nearly 33 years with the city, I think it is time for the city to appoint a new city manager."

Council President Dan Beranek said he accepts the resignation with a great deal of sadness and regret.

Salvati turned 65 earlier this year. He has openly talked about retirement plans for some time, although it was not an easy decision.

"I'm going to miss these associations with the council and the staff," Salvati said.

The city's personnel committee, Beranek and Councilor Denis Warta, will begin working immediately on finding candidates to replace Salvati. Beranek noted that other nearby towns have hired 'headhunters' to help locate qualified applicants, and New Ulm should consider that route.

"We're a large city," Beranek said. "It's a huge undertaking for someone to come in and take over."

The recent passage of the city sales tax and impending plans to expand park and recreation facilities did not alter Salvati's retirement plans.

"It's very tempting to stay, but it's a long-term process," Salvati said. "It's something where a transition will be appropriate in the near future."

There is no set retirement date for Salvati, although it would likely be in the first half of 2001. He said he wants to stay on long enough to allow the city to have a "seamless transition" to the next city manager.

Councilor Ron Fleischmann spoke highly of Salvati and his work for the city.

"Mr. Salvati has embodied the idea of a public servant," Fleischmann said. "I think we have to recognize that whoever we get will be lacking many of the things we currently take for granted."

Fleischmann credits Salvati for his "progressively conservative approach" to city government, being fiscally responsible while moving the town forward.

Councilor Joel Albrecht said Salvati will be missed.

"It's kind of like replacing the Hermann Monument," Albrecht said. "It's kind of tough to do."