Alexandria will conduct a national search for a new city manager and expects the new hire to begin work as early as September. Officials must replace James Hartmann, who plans to leave his post soon after the City Council adopts its fiscal 2012 budget. After six years in Alexandria, Hartmann has applied for several jobs in Florida, including the position of county manager in Seminole County. In a memo to members of the City Council, Mayor Bill Euille said a search has begun to find an executive recruiting company, and that the list of potential companies has been narrowed down to four. Next week, the City Council will review a list of candidates and determine which will be invited for interviews. ?– Ben Giles
