Skala: Columbia’s next city manager was best candidate for job

Columbia will have its first African-American city manager in history, in about two weeks.  The city council unanimously announced the selection of deputy city manager De’Carlon Seewood before Christmas.

Third ward city councilman and Mayor Pro Tem Karl Skala highlights the importance of the council’s unanimous support.

“We thought it was important after going through all the candidates, that that was also the face of the city moving forward. Not only in terms of giving some confidence to Mr. Seewood, but in terms of giving some confidence to the public that this really was a very thorough screening process,” Skala tells 939 the Eagle.

Skala says Mr. Seewood was the best candidate, adding he understands the importance of good communication and personal relationships. Seewood has served as deputy city manager since 2019 and has also worked in Ferguson, Fulton and Osage Beach.

Current city manager John Glascock will retire on January 14.