Politics & Government
Leesburg Council Picks Current Staff Member As Next Town Manager
See who will take over when John Wells steps down later this year.
The Leesburg Town Council voted Tuesday night to hire Kaj Dentler, now the deputy town manager, to replace Town Manager John Wells when he leaves office in October.
The decision marks the end of a wide search, but did not come with unanimous agreement.
Dentler has served as director or acting director of the town’s Parks, Capital Projects, Planning and Airport departments over time.
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"We have full confidence in Kaj's ability to continue and build on the legacy that John Wells has created," said Mayor Kristen Umstattd. "Like John, Kaj has a reputation for integrity, efficiency, frugality, and an appreciation of the importance of excellent customer service.”
Councilman Tom Dunn said he was not pleased with the council’s process for selecting Dentler.
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“He was interviewed before council even established guidelines,” Dunn said, saying the process failed to provide adequate transparency.
Dunn said the council wants Dentler ton “continue most of Council's failed Utility policies, to continue Councils wasteful spending policies, and to continue Council's failed staff management policies.“
The compensation package includes a base salary of $174,000, plus benefits, including $15,000 in annual deferred compensation. A vehicle will not be provide.
Dentler has lived in Leesburg since 1998.
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