City Manager Search Narrows To Two

Hopkins has culled its city manager search to two finalists.

Council on Tuesday picked Excelsior City Manager Kristi Luger and St. Anthony City Manager Mike Mornson for further consideration.

Council members will decide by Friday whether a second interview is needed to decide between the two candidates, said Acting City Manager Jim Genellie.

Council liked Luger’s communication and cited positive traits such as, "straightforward, direct, easy-to-read, positive energy and creative."

"She's personable and I think she could motivate the staff to get things done," Councilwoman Kristi Halverson added.

Mornson has had experience with redevelopment as well as preparing annual budgets, which are two hot-button issues here in Hopkins. His list of positives included traits such as, "knowledgeable, contacts, understands Hopkins, energized by the new city and ethical."

The two carry different levels of experience with them. Luger has been Excelsior’s city manager since 2008. Michael Mornson has held the St. Anthony city manager since 1994. Council liked that experience—and Mornson’s appetite for the job.

"He said 15 times, if not 30, that he wants this job," said Councilman Rick Brausen.

The council was confident that both Luger and Mornson possess the ability to do the job. But during the discussion Councilwoman Cheryl Youakim asked, "Do we want the doctor or do we want to be a teaching hospital?"

Said Brausen: "If someone has to do the learning curve, this is a wonderful group of people to do that with."

The city manager will have some trying times in the years ahead. With a budget that needs tweaking, departments that warrant attention and a growing community, the city manager will have his or her hands full.