Amid ‘challenging times,’ Madras councilors appoint experienced interim city administrator David Clyne

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Madras city councilors voted unanimously Tuesday evening to appoint David Clyne as new interim city administrator, expressing confidence in his abilities to help solve the city's recent leadership struggles.

The city's employment agreement with Clyne, who most recently served as city administrator in Independence, Oregon, will be effective next Monday, April 6, but he told councilors Tuesday night he will get to work right away.

The city said in a news release Wednesday, "The appointment follows a period of leadership transition beginning in January, during which the city operated under interim and council-managed structure while continuing core services and operations."

Clyne also has served as an interim administrator for several other cities throughout Oregon and Colorado.

Before the vote, Councilor Gabriel Soliz said Klein is what the city needs.

"I know that he will do good work," he said. "He will do some cleanup work that the city desperately needs. He will help staff with just getting their heads around everything and being sure that things are on track and on task."

Soliz warned fellow councilors they should be aware of the steep costs of such appointments, but added strong leadership was worth it. Clyne, who attended the meeting by Zoom, said he was excited to start working.

Councilors at a March 4 meeting directed staff to identify qualified candidates to serve in an interim capacity. Three candidates were presented and interviewed by a council subcommittee on March 10. Following that process, the council selected Clyne and finalized terms of the employment agreement.

The city says Clyne brings more than 40 years of local government experience, including service as a city administrator or manager in communities of varying sizes, as well as several interim leadership roles in other Oregon cities. His background includes municipal operations, budgeting, organizational leadership, and guiding cities through complex transitions.

In the city's announcement, Soliz said, “Mr. Clyne brings a strong background in local government and a proven track record of stepping into complex situations and providing steady leadership. We are confident in his ability to support the Council and staff and help guide the organization through this transition.”

Clyne said, “I am excited to come to Madras and provide support to the community, council, and staff during my time here, The city is going through challenging times, and I look forward to helping address those challenges and ensuring stability moving forward.”

Under the agreement, Clyne will serve as the city’s chief administrative officer, responsible for day-to-day operations, oversight of city departments, implementation of Council direction, and support of ongoing organizational priorities.

The interim appointment is expected to extend through August 1, unless modified by mutual agreement. 

Recruitment for a permanent city administrator is underway, in partnership with Prothman, a recruiting service. More information about the position and application process is available at
https://www.madras.gov/hr/job-opening/city-administrator.

"The City of Madras remains committed to maintaining continuity of services, supporting staff, and ensuring stable leadership during this transition," the news release concluded.